Lunchtime at school. Remember it? It was just about rushing to the cafeteria, chowing down some food and getting out, wasn’t it? Lessons stopped for food and resumed afterwards. But that’s not how it works in every country. Take Japan, for instance. They take a whole new approach to lunch. It’s opportunity to learn!

When the lunch bell strikes, it’s time for food, sure. But it’s not time for the learning to cease. Some Japanese schools are running a scheme where pupils then head into the canteen after prepare for meals and doing health and cleanliness checks, amongst other things. It’s all about ‘all-round learning’ and life skills.

The kids are taught to eat politely and they learn all about healthy food and how to cook and serve it. They’re also taught personal hygiene, how to clean up after themselves after mealtimes, about recycling and to be being thankful to the people who made the food for them. It’s a great idea we think!