At F.E.D. Foundation (Feeding, Education & Development), our research focuses on understanding the barriers that prevent children from accessing food, learning, and participation, and developing evidence-based solutions that create more inclusive outcomes.
School Food Standards & Inclusive Access
F.E.D. Foundation is currently examining how the UK’s proposed 2026 School Food Standards can better support children who experience feeding difficulties, sensory sensitivities, medical complexities, and SEND-related challenges. Our work explores how schools can move beyond nutritional compliance to ensure that every child can access and participate in mealtimes successfully.
Feeding Development and Educational Participation
This research programme investigates the relationship between feeding development and engagement in education. We are exploring how feeding skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, and food confidence influence children’s ability to learn, participate, and thrive within school environments.
Eating as Learning (EaL) Framework Evaluation
The Foundation continues to gather evidence on the impact of the Eating as Learning (EaL) Framework and Curriculum, assessing how practical food education can support feeding skill development, independence, confidence, and inclusion across educational settings.
SEND, Food Access and Inclusion
Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities often face unique barriers to food access and participation. This research explores the adaptations, reasonable adjustments, and support systems required to ensure inclusive experiences for all learners.
Family Experience and Lived Reality Research
Parents and carers play a crucial role in supporting children’s feeding and developmental journeys. Through surveys, case studies, and stakeholder engagement, we are building a stronger understanding of family experiences and identifying opportunities for earlier intervention and better support pathways.
Policy and Systems Change
F.E.D. Foundation is developing an evidence base to inform future policy, guidance, and service design. Our research seeks to ensure that feeding development is recognised as a fundamental component of children’s health, education, wellbeing, and inclusion.
Research in Development
We are actively seeking partnerships with schools, universities, healthcare professionals, local authorities, and families to expand the evidence base for feeding, education, and development. Through collaborative research, we aim to create practical solutions that improve outcomes for children across the UK.
Together, we are building the evidence needed to transform children’s access to food, learning, and participation.