On Wednesday, March 20th, Chartwells’ nutritionist, Marnie, visited the Junior School to deliver an energy assembly and workshop about the importance on fuelling our minds and bodies to 71 of our pupils.
Marnie explained to our pupils how the energy we gain from food is vital for our bodies and brains to function at their best. During the assembly, they explored concepts surrounding how our bodies use energy and the importance of refuelling through food and sleep.
Building on the information provided in the assembly, our pupils got hands-on and made their very own snacks. This workshop reinforced Marnie’s messaging in a fun and practical way while allowing them to create delicious treats. Together, they made nutritious energy balls, teaching them that they can enjoy a nutritious snack even when on the go.
Energy Ball Recipe
Cranberry and apricot balls: Ingredients
- 2 cups of oats (we used GF)
- 1 cup of cranberries and apricots
- 1tbsp Coconut
- 1/2tsp Cinnamon
- 1 cup pumpkin and sunflower seeds
- 1tbsp golden syrup (or other syrup)
- small bowl of water
Coco and raisin balls: Ingredients
- 2 cups of oats (we used GF)
- 1 cup of raisins
- 1/2 to 1tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup banana chips (optional)
- 1 cup pumpkin and sunflower seeds
- 1tbsp golden syrup (or other syrup)
- small bowl of water
Top tips
If you can, use a food processor to made the energy balls, as it gives a great consistency. However, if you don’t have a food processor at home, you can soak the fruit overnight in water to create a ‘glue’ like mixture. If using a food processor, add in the water little bit at a time till the mixture comes together. If you make the mixture too wet, add dry oats.
Notes
Oats are a great option when deciding what food to energise our body with. As a wholegrain, they release their energy more slowly, leaving you feeling fuller for longer, and fuelled for the start of lessons or exercise. Oats are also high in fibre, which supports our digestive system and promotes gut health.
