From environmental activism to growing health awareness, a quiet revolution is taking place in school cafeterias. Leading this charge is Plant Based Schools, a movement dedicated to transforming what our children eat and how they learn about food. I had the honour of meeting Plant Based Schools at the Vegan Camp Out 2025 and love what they stand for. This is more than just a dietary change for our nation, it’s a mission to nurture a healthier, more compassionate, and more sustainable future for all, one meal at a time…
Who PBS Are & What They Stand For
Plant Based Schools is an initiative driven by Veganism in Education (VinE), a Community Interest Company. Their mission is to promote education that enhances a child’s spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, as well as their overall health and academic performance. They believe that by integrating veganism and plant-based principles into the curriculum, they can help young people to develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and compassion for all living beings.
The movement isn’t just about changing menus; it’s about changing mindsets. By providing resources and support, they empower teachers, parents, and students alike to advocate for plant-based food options and educate others on the interconnected benefits of this lifestyle.
The Benefits: A Win For Health & Our Planet
Health Benefits Of A Plant-Based Diet For Children
A plant-based diet, when well-planned, can provide all of the necessary nutrients for a child’s growth and development. Research suggests that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes can help to:
- Combat Childhood Obesity: Plant-based foods are often lower in saturated fat and calories, and higher in fibre, which can help children to maintain a healthy weight.
- Improve Overall Health: Studies have linked plant-based diets to a reduced risk of chronic diseases later in life, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
- Boost Academic Performance: Healthier eating can lead to better concentration and focus in the classroom, as well as a more positive mood.
Environmental Benefits For The Planet
The current global food system, particularly industrial animal agriculture, is a major contributor to climate change. Shifting to plant-based menus in schools can have a dramatic positive impact on the environment by:
- Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The carbon footprint of a plant-based meal is significantly lower than that of a meal containing meat or dairy. For example, studies show that a single plant-based meal can have a 30% lower GHG emission compared to a non-vegetarian option.
- Conserving Resources: Plant-based food production requires less land and less water than livestock farming. By reducing reliance on animal products, schools can help to conserve precious natural resources.
- Promoting Sustainable Food Systems: A greater demand for plant-based options in schools can stimulate local, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire food system.
How You Can Support The Movement
Plant Based Schools is a grassroots effort that relies on community support to make a difference. If you believe in their mission, here’s how you can get involved:
- Join the Community: Sign up on the Plant Based Schools website to become part of a network of parents, teachers, and students working for change. This is the first step in their “How we win” process.
- Advocate at Your School: With the support of the Plant Based Schools community, you can negotiate with your school’s administration to improve their food provision and add more healthy, plant-based options to the menu.
- Donate: Support their work and contribute to climate action by donating to the cause.
- Attend a Meetup: If you’re in the London area, you may like to consider attending one of their meetups to connect with like-minded individuals and get more involved in their brilliant efforts.
By working together, we can help to build a school system that nourishes not only our children but also the planet that they will inherit.
