At Affinity Education, we believe high-quality early education is inseparable from high-quality nutrition. With children receiving up to 50% of their daily nutritional requirements while in care, our approach to food is a core part of how we support every child's wellbeing, learning and development.
This summer, we are proud to roll out our refreshed Seasonal Healthy Menu across our national network of centres - Milestones Early Learning, Papilio Early Learning, Kids Academy Early Learning and Aussie Kindies Early Learning.
More than a menu, it reflects our commitment to sector-leading practice, meaningful partnerships, and giving every child the best start in life.
Quality Nutrition, Designed for Real Early Learning Environments
Our Seasonal Healthy Menu is shaped by:
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The Australian Dietary Guidelines
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National Quality Framework requirements
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Research into early childhood nutrition
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Our organisation’s dedication to continuous improvement
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Practical insights from educators, cooks and centre teams
Children across our centres receive:
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A balanced breakfast
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Morning tea
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A nutritious lunch
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Afternoon tea
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Water throughout the day
Each component is designed to support physical wellbeing, sustained energy for learning, emotional regulation and healthy habits that extend beyond early childhood.
Developed in Partnership With Leaders in Early Childhood Nutrition
To deliver a menu that is genuinely aligned with best practice, Affinity partnered with The Biting Truth, Accredited Practising Dietitians with more than 10 years’ experience supporting early learning services across Australia.
Working closely with our team, they have helped develop a menu that is:
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Evidence-based and balanced
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Rich in iron, whole grains, vegetables and quality proteins
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Designed to support cognitive development and physical growth
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Practical for centre kitchens and adaptable across diverse communities
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Inclusive of vegetarian, cultural and dietary needs
A Thoughtfully Crafted Summer Menu
Our summer menu features fresh seasonal produce and child-friendly flavours that reflect both cultural diversity and nutritional balance. While each centre adapts the menu to meet community needs, all follow our national framework.
A sample Week 1 menu includes:
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Mild, protein-rich bowls served with fresh vegetables
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Balanced pasta dishes incorporating whole grains
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Colourful fruit, cheese and vegetable platters
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Wholesome afternoon teas designed to build healthy habits
See Week One of our Summer Menu here.
For educators and cooks, the structure of the menu provides guidance, consistency and clarity, reducing stress and supporting smooth daily operations.
Supporting Educators Through Strong Systems & Training
Affinity’s approach to nutrition is underpinned by systems and support that help educators succeed every day.
Our teams benefit from:
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Clear menu guidelines and recipes designed for real ECE kitchen environments
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Support from Head Office during implementation
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Training, including food safety and allergy management
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Consistent national processes that reduce confusion and build confidence
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Resources for educators to promote positive mealtime interactions
When educators feel supported, children benefit, and centres operate more smoothly and safely.
Mealtimes as Learning Moments
Nutrition is integrated into our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, supporting all areas of early childhood development.
At Affinity centres, mealtimes are intentionally designed to promote:
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Social and emotional learning
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Independence and self-help skills
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Language development
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Sensory exploration
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Cultural inclusivity
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Positive relationships with food
Across our network, it’s common to see children sharing conversations about colours, textures and flavours, while educators model kindness, patience and curiosity.
A Purpose-Led Approach to Wellbeing
The launch of our Summer Menu reflects Affinity’s broader commitment to quality, child safety and educator empowerment.
It demonstrates our values in action:
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We believe in our people - Educators and cooks are supported with training, resources and strong systems.
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We believe in evidence-based practice - Our menu reflects sector-leading nutritional guidelines and expert partnerships.
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We believe children deserve the best - Whether a child is trying a new food for the first time or enjoying a familiar favourite, every meal is an opportunity for nourishment, learning and connection.
Learn More About Affinity Education Group
Explore how our people, curriculum and programs work together to give every child the best start in life.