Free school lunch (Year 1–4)

Free school lunch Year 1–4

Free lunch for learners in Year 1–4 from 2026

Starting January 1st, 2026, NGG will offer a free, healthy lunch every school day to all learners in Year 1–4 – both Danish and international.

We are proud to be among the schools selected to take part in Denmark’s national pilot programme for school meals. The programme runs from 2026 to 2028 and aims to assess the benefits of integrating nutritious meals into the school day – including effects on learners’ health, concentration, well-being, and social development.

What the initiative includes

Each school day, learners in Year 1–4 will receive a free lunch prepared with attention to quality, nutrition, and variety. Meals will include both warm and cold options and are designed to be age-appropriate, child-friendly, and based on seasonal ingredients.

Meals will be served either in learners’ classrooms or in NGG’s new canteen – a modern space that will act as a hub for food and community. The environment will be calm and structured, supporting the idea of lunch as a meaningful pause in the day.

The lunch programme will be implemented as a fully funded initiative under the national scheme, meaning families do not need to pay. Participation is automatic for all Year 1–4 learners, but it is voluntary – learners are welcome to bring their own packed lunch if preferred.

A stronger school day

At NGG, we believe lunch is not just about feeding the body – it’s part of shaping the school culture. A shared meal gives learners time to unwind, connect with classmates and teachers, and build healthy eating habits that support learning and growth.

Principal Thomas Thrane explains: “This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in children’s everyday lives. Sharing a good meal isn’t just about nutrition – it creates space for connection, calm, and curiosity. That’s valuable on so many levels.”

We look forward to integrating a shared, nutritious lunch into the daily rhythm of school life for our youngest learners.