Parents will now be able to collect seasonal produce when picking up their children from school thanks to an island-wide initiative aimed at improving access to fresh, local produce.
The Sustainable Cooperative – known as Scoop – has introduced a fruit and vegetable box delivery service to local primary schools.
The scheme is designed to make it easier for families to access “fresh, local, organic and regenerative produce”, while also supporting growers who prioritise environmental sustainability.
Under the initiative, boxes are delivered to participating schools every Thursday or Friday, with parents able to take them home at the end of the school day.
Families can also add optional extras such as locally pressed apple juice, milled flour and sourdough bread.
The programme follows a six-week pilot involving ten families and is now being expanded to schools in Grouville, St Martin, St Peter, St John and St Mary, with more expected to join in the coming weeks.
It has received backing from both Public Health and Economic Development.
As part of the initiative, families are also being offered opportunities to learn more about food production.
Children will receive “VIP backstage passes” to visit SCOOP, helping them understand where their food comes from and the importance of supporting biodiversity and soil health.
In addition, Jersey Royal seed potatoes are being distributed to encourage families to grow their own produce at home.
Future plans include the development of an online portal featuring recipes, tips and activities to help families make the most of their weekly boxes. Organisers also hope to involve children in designing the boxes and sharing their own recipes.
The Sustainable Cooperative, which has worked with more than 150 local suppliers since opening in 2028, says feedback from the pilot has been positive.
Islanders who would like to support Scoop’s efforts to develop resources for local families are invited to get in touch with the organisation.
Parents can register their interest in the scheme via an online form.