Quality Meat Scotland’s (QMS) ‘Tasty Little Weeks’ initiative is back, with schools receiving £180 worth of vouchers to spend with their local Scotch-assured butchers, as well as a bank of resources packed with ideas and tools to inspire children and teachers.
In 2022, 320 secondary schools were involved in the initiative. Covering every local authority across Scotland, it gave students an opportunity to learn and experience some of the country’s finest produce in new and innovative ways. So far, 315 schools have signed up to this year’s initiative and received their vouchers last month.
“The vouchers, combined with our recipes, lesson plans and worksheets, gives educators nearly everything they need for the three ‘Tasty Little Weeks’,” explained Alix Richie, QMS’s Health and Education Manager.
“At a time when young people have a wide variety of influences, it’s important that we discuss the nutritional, environmental and societal benefits of locally sourced red meat, and the meat voucher scheme combined with the Tasty Little Weeks are the perfect platform on which to have those conversations.”
The initiative aims to spotlight the exceptional quality and versatility of Scotch meat brands. Specially Selected Pork kicked off this year’s programme in September, Scotch Lamb will take centre stage from 27 November, to coincide with the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers Scotland (IAAS)’ Lamb for St Andrew’s Day, and Scotch Beef will take its turn the week starting 5 February 2024.
“Red meat is a nutrient and energy rich product,” said Alix. “It’s a great source of iron, zinc and vitamin B12 as well as protein. All of which are important for healthy growth and development, as part of a balanced diet.”
Home economics departments will have the opportunity to claim vouchers worth up to £180, which can be redeemed at their local Scotch Butcher Club member.
“Through this initiative we hope to give more school children the opportunity to taste the various sustainably produced red meats that Scotland is renowned for, while simultaneously teaching them valuable lifelong skills and knowledge.
“Our comprehensive resources cover a spectrum of topics, ranging from the world-leading animal welfare standards adhered to in our farming practices, to the sustainable attributes of Scottish red meat, and how it harmoniously fits within a healthy diet.”
To apply for your voucher visit: https://bit.ly/MVS23-24 and for the worksheets that accompany the three ‘Tasty Little Weeks’ head to www.farmingfoodsteps.co.uk
For the recipes and further insights into the health and education team’s comprehensive suite of resources, please visit www.qmscotland.co.uk/healthy-eating/schools or listen to the latest episode of the QMS podcast.