DURING last year's summer holidays it was decided that Houghton Kepier's canteen needed a face-lift.

Working closely with the City of Sunderland's Contracting Services and with the cooperation and hard work of our kitchen staff, we now have a state-of-the-art caf, which is very colourful with modern seating.

The food available includes healthy options, such as salads and jacket potatoes, as well as fast foods such as burgers and pizza. We are also able to listen to music while we eat. The School Council has organised a rota so that pupils in each class are able to choose the music.

Houghton Kepier School is one of the first in Sunderland to benefit from the World Card cashless dining system.

The cards were introduced this term, and are used by both staff and pupils to obtain lunch.

Pupils entitled to free meals have their cards credited automatically and all pupils can top-up their cards daily. This removes any possible stigma attached to claiming a free meal, and encourages all pupils to have a lunch.

Numbers staying for lunch have increased significantly, which suggests that the caf has been a great hit with both staff and pupils.

The system also has the advantage of serving pupils more quickly, giving them the opportunity to participate in the wide range of clubs and activities available at lunchtime.

Longer term, the cards will also be used as part of the school's reward system.

Teachers will be able to credit pupils with points on their cards, which can be exchanged for goods at participating stores.