Mamma Mia! It's school dinners!

A TASTE OF ITALY COMES TO SCHOOL DINNERS as some primary school dining halls are set to be transformed into Italian restaurants when they take part in the Italian-themed school dinners week.

During the week commencing Monday June 6, children who choose school dinners will be tucking into dishes such as Italian-style chicken fillet and sausage, tomato and pesto pasta as well as classic Italian dishes such as lasagne and pizza.

The themed week is just one of many that take place throughout the year and Italy was chosen to celebrate Italian Republic Day. Schools are encouraged to decorate the dining hall to reflect the Italian theme.

Alan Woods, catering manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Themed weeks and special promotions result in schools seeing positive and often substantial increases in their meal take up. We have had an excellent response from schools wishing to take part in the Italian week with at least 83 schools serving the special menu for all or part of the week. The children thoroughly enjoy and actively participate in the events and have the opportunity to try new dishes and learn about other countries and their cultures."

Other events planned in the forthcoming terms include a special American Independence Day menu and healthy sports days.