The Value of a Hot Lunch
A valuable tradition at British international and independent schools
At The Independent School of Jakarta (ISJ), a leading British international school in Jakarta, hot, freshly prepared lunches are more than meals—they build community, support healthy habits, and enrich the rhythm of school life.
Lunchtime at ISJ is about connection as much as nutrition. Pupils sit together in their Houses, encouraging friendships across year groups. Younger children gain confidence by interacting with older peers, while older pupils develop responsibility and leadership as role models. When everyone shares the same meal, comparisons fall away and the focus returns to conversation and community.
Balanced menus—fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—help pupils stay focused through the afternoon and support sustained learning. Families benefit too: with hot lunches provided daily, there’s one less task in the morning and confidence that children are eating well at school.
Children are often more willing to try new foods when eating together. A gentle “give it a go” culture leads to new favourites and builds resilience and openness to new experiences. Mealtimes also provide real-life practice of social skills—using cutlery, waiting patiently, and practising polite conversation—habits that become second nature over time.
A school lunch programme also reduces single-use packaging from packed lunches and encourages mindful portions. ISJ’s Eco-Committee helps monitor waste and provides feedback to the kitchen, reinforcing responsibility and sustainability. In short, the hot lunch tradition reflects our values: nurturing wellbeing, building a close-knit community, and developing confident, well-rounded pupils.