The Boarding Buzz

From the Head of Boarding

In boarding we value parent feedback and at our Boarding Parent Committee Meeting this term, one of the agenda items was around the food service we provide and whether that needs a refresh or change. We talked about the meals for our boarders for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as the afternoon options and the constant top ups for each house. Portion sizes, nutritional value and variety were topics discussed.

 

This feedback was discussed with our Chefs and we met to discuss all things food. From these discussions we created a food survey, so we could gain some input from your child. We took photos of what we plate up for these meals and serve your child.  I have often said the service is very generous here at GSG. This is based on experience and a firm belief the best option for your child in boarding is to have team members who are passionate about their roles and have knowledge of our context. 

 

At Great Southern Grammar, our boarding food service is more than just meals - it’s about providing nutritious, balanced, and delicious options to fuel our boarders throughout their busy days. Our fortnightly menu is carefully designed to ensure a variety of meals that not only satisfy taste buds but also support the health and wellbeing of our boarders.

 

Balancing Taste and Nutrition

 

We know that some classic favourites, like chicken parmigiana and chips, are always in high demand. These comfort foods provide energy and enjoyment, but we also focus on complementing them with nutrient-dense choices to maintain a healthy balance.

For example, while a serving of chicken parmigiana with chips is a satisfying meal, it can be high in saturated fats and carbohydrates. To balance this, we offer a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables and fresh salads, ensuring that students receive essential vitamins and minerals.

 

Nutritional highlights from our fortnightly menu

Our approach to meal planning ensures that students receive the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. Portion sizes are thoughtfully considered, balancing protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Some key menu highlights include:

  • Protein-Packed Choices: Lean meats, fish, and plant-based proteins ensure sustained energy and muscle development.
  • Vegetable-Rich Options: We serve a variety of seasonal vegetables, both raw and cooked, to provide essential vitamins and fibre.
  • Healthy Carbohydrates: Whole grains, brown rice, and hearty soups offer slow-releasing energy for long school days.
  • Fresh Fruits and Dairy: Yogurts, cheeses, and fresh fruit are available daily for added calcium and antioxidants.

Boarders' Survey Results 

Endeavour House

 

Lunches

  • The lunches are nice and yummy, and they fill me up.
  • So far, I’m quite liking the lunches but some days I don’t really know what to pick but what I pick is good.

Dinners

  • I don’t like the in-house dinners.
  • Some are good, some are ok.
  • The dinners are nearly always fantastic.
  • I think boarding dinners are ok, I don't mind them.

Eclipse House

 

Lunches

  • They can be small.
  • Needs more protein.
  • More burgers.

Dinners

  • Need more high-quality protein.

Breaksea House

 

Lunches

  • I like the pasta. Very yummy. I love the wraps on the weekends it’s so good.
  • It's actually better than I suspected it would be, thanks Chefs.
  • More different options because there is a repeat of the same things.

Dinners

  • I really like the dinners.
  • I feel we need more variety in meals, not the same meals on repeat.
  • They are very nutritious but need more flavours.
  • I am very grateful for the catering team, thank you for our meals every day, I think it’s a solid 10/10 regardless of criticism.

What we noticed from the feedback

The team has identified variety within the style of meals we provide. For example, pasta is a staple favourite, so we can mix this dish up and give our boarders some different types of pasta meals. Small changes to what ingredients go into a meal can change the flavour and sometimes texture of a meal. Late dinner meals are now being plated up in the houses, this is working really well. Portion sizes are being looked at and adjusted for lunch orders and saves and we are addressing feedback by using less butter on the rolls for lunches.

Encouraging Smart Choices

Our food service team encourages students to make informed decisions about their meals by providing a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs. By offering appealing, nutrient-rich alternatives, we ensure that even the most popular comfort meals come with healthier counterparts to promote overall well-being.

 

At Great Southern Grammar Boarding, we believe that good nutrition is the foundation for success - both in the houses and beyond. By offering a well-balanced, variety and a tasty menu, we ensure that our boarders enjoy their meals while also receiving the nourishment they need to thrive.

As always if your child isn’t liking a particular meal, we encourage them to talk to our chefs or boarding staff who are more than accommodating when it comes to food.  We always strive to improve and adapt our service, particularly with our catering service, so please encourage your child to let us know if we can do anything differently, we love and embrace feedback, good or bad.

 

Mr Ashley Keatch | Head of Boarding