The School Milk Project (TSMP) was established in 1998 with the aim of increasing the uptake of milk in primary schools, which remains the main aim of the Project 10 years on. The Project is a non-profit making organisation which employs a team of facilitators who can discuss with Local Authorities (LA), Schools and Administrators the best practices for the promotion and implementation of School Milk Schemes in their areas.

Milk is of enormous nutritional benefit and can help provide the essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that children need to help with development. But where to start when looking to provide milk at school??

First of all you have to recognise that every school is different so it’s no use devising a “one suit fits all” type approach!  Facilitators visit primary schools to carry out research, document reasons and help overcome concerns relating to the implementation and promotion of milk schemes. Working in partnership with the school, they can help develop ‘bespoke’ milk schemes that suit those individual schools.

Secondly, it’s important to note that teachers and administrators are under time pressure.  By having a physical presence in schools we are able to determine any problem areas, offer ways in which to best overcome these, thereby enabling Head Teachers to make an informed decision, as to the viability and sustainability of a school milk scheme in their school.

Finally, Facilitators provide advice, information and assist schools who wish to participate in either the promotion of an existing scheme or the introduction of a new scheme. This can involve anything from leaving a basic guideline pack with the school, through to providing class talks to children about the benefits of drinking milk as part of a healthy balanced diet.

We have been fortunate to witness the successful operation of existing schemes in Primary Schools and can therefore pass on this knowledge, experience and best practice ideas to other schools. Need our support? click here to find your local Facilitator now.

The School Milk Project has also developed free, curriculum linked, educational resources for schools that can enhance a school milk scheme, enabling pupils to learn about a healthy balanced diet, as well as learning all about dairy farming and production.  Click here to go direct to our resources section...