The Chancellor used the opportunity to highlight her decision to extend eligibility for free school meals, serve a school lunch and give Elaine’s pupils a chance to interview her about school meals and her life as a politician.

Rupinder Bansil, Headteacher of the Inspire Partnership’s Elaine Primary School in Rochester, commented on the significance of the Chancellor’s visit and the importance of free school meals, "We have taken this school on a remarkable journey of improvement, from being judged Requires Improvement by Ofsted to becoming a Good school. This transformation occurred despite many of the children’s challenging life circumstances, with more than half of the pupils here receiving the Pupil Premium. 

“We know that children will always achieve more when they can do so on a full stomach and we’re delighted that more are going to be able to do so as a result of this new spending commitment.”

Rob Carpenter, CEO of the Inspire Partnership Academy Trust and RISE Adviser, added, “We know about the relationship between poverty and learner attainment which stubbornly persists. Our national challenge is to find ways to overcome the complex barriers to learning to ensure all children achieve and thrive.

“As a school and Trust we are proud of our track record to ensure all children receive the very best education and achieve outcomes which exceed those nationally. The new entitlement for a greater number of students is an important step in the right direction and supports our mission to transform the lives of children through partnership and collaboration.”

Andrew Lawrence, Chair of Trustees at Inspire Partnership Academy Trust, said, "As a trust, we have always supported children who are most at need, using funds to provide additional support. Not having breakfast can be a barrier to regular attendance and the extension of the free schools meals programme will reduce barriers to attendance and will provide children with a healthy meal to get them through the school day.

"All pupils can reach their potential if the conditions are right, including a culture of high attendance. We look forward to seeing the impact this policy has."

The children enjoyed meeting the Chancellor and connecting the high profile visit to the values of British democracy, a topic often taught in the school. 

During the opportunity to interview the Chancellor, one student, Omera from Year 4, asked, “What were your school meals like?”

To which the Chancellor responded, “Well, actually at primary school I did quite enjoy my school meals. I particularly enjoyed the puddings but I think school meals are a bit healthier now. I think my favourite was chocolate sponge with chocolate custard.”

Other questions included what the Chancellor would do if she had three wishes, what would she be if she could have another job, and why did she choose to become a politician.

After being interviewed by the children, the Chancellor joined the catering team to serve a school meal to the children and then sit down to lunch with them.