Rating: +0
Each school community is different and makes a different decision on this issue. Most endeavour to find a balance between the two. Even schools that choose to be there as a service to parents need to make a profit. Different things come up year to year and there must be funds available to cover them. These items can include unexpected events[ like break ins or floods] ,equipment maintenance and replacement, facility upgrade requirements, putting aside funds for long service leave, organisation memberships, training for staff and volunteers and more. The canteen can be a fundraiser to some extent but it shouldn’t be the “cash cow’ of the school. Having a canteen isn’t just about raising money. It is a part of students education. Some of the many areas canteens contribute to educating students include
For the younger grades-
Spend within a budget
Wait in a line
Wait for change
Recognise and handle money
Make food choices for themselves
Interact with adults in a safe situation [a new volunteer face over the counter is a common occurrence]
Use their manners
Broaden their taste experience via specials and theme days
For the older grades-
Some schools offer hospitality training,
Work with their canteen on costings,
Help develop menus and marketing plans,
Assist with graphics for flyers and murals