Levi Roots puts some reggae in school dinners

In his first visit to a school since teaming up with Green Gourmet to introduce some exciting fusion flavours to school menus, Levi Roots, met students from Brittons Academy in Rainham to find out how his latest recipes were going down.

Pupils sampled his signature flavours, which have been added to Havering secondary schools menus – Levi Roots Jerk Chicken Fillet and Levi Roots West Indian chicken fillet - and gave Levi, famous for his Reggae Reggae sauces, the thumbs up!

Councillor Robert Benham, Havering’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Families, said:

“We’ve been looking to spice up our schools menu by sourcing new foods that were still nutritional. We tried out some of the samples the feedback from children was an overwhelming hit. 

“Levi Roots is a well-known face so it’s inspirational for our young people to have a chance to meet him and also to learn more about the person and the preparations behind their meals.”

Levi, who developed his love of cooking and music from his grandmother in Jamaica, said: 

“Having the chance to meet young people who have an interest in your food and enjoy eating it gives me a real boost.

"It also provides me with an opportunity to hear about their aspirations and hopes for the future, and I just want to encourage them to pursue their dreams.”

Headteacher William Thompson, said:

“It was a lovely opportunity for our students to meet Levi. He was very warm and friendly with the students and they seemed to really enjoy the food.” 

School pupil Daniel, 15, said: “It’s very nice and not something we’ve had in the canteen before, so I’ll definitely be trying it again.”

Jodie, 14, said: “It’s amazing. If others try it I think they will really like it!”

Nia, 15, said: “Seasoning like this is not something we usually get in school.”