The DEN Nursery Group is proud to announce that it is the only nursery group in the UK to have achieved Food for the Brain Accreditation at an Excellent standard, following a rigorous independent audit of its food provision.
This prestigious recognition highlights the group’s exceptional commitment to early years nutrition and reflects the high standards embedded across all DEN Nursery Group settings.
A Sector‑Leading Approach to Early Years Nutrition
The Food for the Brain Accreditation evaluates how well early years providers support children’s physical and cognitive development through food. The DEN Nursery Group achieved an outstanding score of 91 out of 100, demonstrating a strong, evidence‑led approach to nutrition for babies and children aged six months to four years.
Assessors reviewed all aspects of food provision, including:
- Menu planning and nutritional balance
- Ingredient sourcing and sustainability
- Cooking methods and freshly prepared meals
- Dietary inclusivity and allergy management
- Staff training and knowledge
- Food education embedded into daily learning
The audit recognised The DEN Group’s robust, centrally led nutritional framework, which is delivered consistently across all nurseries, ensuring that every child benefits from the same high‑quality, evidence‑informed approach to healthy eating.
Fresh, Balanced Meals Made from Scratch
Across all DEN Nursery Group settings, children enjoy balanced meals prepared fresh on site, using seasonal ingredients and age‑appropriate recipes. Menus are carefully designed to support:
- Physical growth and development
- Sustained energy and concentration
- Brain health and cognitive development
- Positive relationships with food
This thoughtful approach helps children develop healthy eating habits from the very start of their learning journey.
Food Education That Goes Beyond the Plate
Food education is a key part of everyday life at The DEN Nursery Group. Children regularly explore where food comes from and learn why it is good for their bodies and minds.
A favourite feature across the settings is the use of Daily Food Fact Cards, which spark curiosity and conversation, encouraging children to engage with food in a fun, meaningful and age‑appropriate way.
Industry Recognition
Patrick Holford BSc, DipION, FBANT, NTCRP, from the Food for the Brain Foundation, commented:
“The DEN Nursery Group sets an outstanding benchmark in early years nutrition, with fresh, from‑scratch meals, exceptional food education and evidence‑based practices that support children’s brain development and long‑term wellbeing.”
The Food for the Brain Foundation concluded that The DEN Nursery Group is emerging as a sector leader, setting best‑practice standards for how nutrition can positively support lifelong wellbeing, starting in the earliest years of life.
Thank you for trusting us with your children, we are so proud to support their learning, health and happiness every day.
