A SCHOOL’S new kitchen has been given an astronomical rating of a million out of 10 from pupils.

East Wichel Primary School, which opened in September, has began dishing up cooked food for the first time.

Pupils chose from meatballs in tomato sauce with pasta twists, vegetable chow mein or jacket potatoes.

Fairycakes were offered for afters along with the daily selection of fresh fruit and yoghurt and a salad bar.

The kitchen was set up single-handedly by catering manager Steph Baker, who has worked flat out while she waits for an assistant to start.

The school, in Staldon Road, had been relying on sandwiches, yoghurts and other cold food.

“It’s a major milestone in the history of the school,” said headteacher Caroline Henham.

“We’re really pleased as it’s slightly ahead of schedule, because the kitchen was meant to be operational after Easter, but Mrs Baker worked really hard to make sure it was fully functioning ahead of time.

“She not only had to set the kitchen up but she also asked children, parents and governors what they wanted.

“Every single child was invited to enjoy a free roast lunch a week ago.

“We also had taster sessions after school with a variety of main courses and desserts. We had more than 100 parents and children turn up.

“They really enjoyed it and the feedback was very positive.

“In the first week, 50 per cent of the children had hot dinners and I expect that number to increase from the great response we had.”

Mrs Baker, who has added her homemade beefburgers to the menu, sources produce locally using seasonal, fresh vegetables where possible.

She said: “It feels absolutely brilliant, I’m so happy to be here and cooking for the children.

“The best part is seeing their happy faces when they’re eating their food. Most of them come up and thank me and say they enjoyed their meal.”

So far 60 pupils have signed up for the new service at the school, which has a high number of children on free school meals.

Choices yesterday included a roast dinner, Quorn fillet with vegetable gravy or jacket potato.

Jamie, eight, gave a rave review of the meals he has enjoyed this week.

He said: “I give it a million out of 10. I like everything on the menu.”

Ella, five, was also impressed with the brand new menu.

She said: “They are super brilliant. “