Amber Welsh has criticised Hardwick Green Primary Academy in Stockton, alleging that her six-year-old son, Isa Hasan, was served a ham sandwich at lunch last week. The mother of two says that despite having dietary requirements for her Muslim son, who does not eat pork, the school failed to prevent the incident.
Ms Welsh also claims that before the summer holidays, Isa was served pasta carbonara, which contains bacon. She understands that pork has been temporarily removed from the school's menu following her complaint, but The Enquire Learning Trust, which runs the academy, would not confirm this or whether the incidents are being investigated.
The trust issued a statement saying a variety of sandwiches are available daily, with choices changing due to supply, seasonality and cost. They emphasised their commitment to providing high-quality meals and have updated menus to offer a wider range of options.
Ms Welsh expressed distress, stating that her son asked if she was angry at him and that he did not know the sandwich contained ham. She questioned whether she can trust the school, highlighting that if he had a nut allergy such a mistake could be dangerous.
The school was rated as 'requiring improvement' by Ofsted in November, though pupil behaviour and personal development were rated 'good'.
