Running a canteen is much more than providing healthy food and drinks. As well as planning a menu that is suitable for the school community consideration needs to be given to financial process and procedures; what kind of sustainable practices will the canteen adopt; understanding the importance of recruiting, retaining and rewarding volunteers; and importantly how to manage staff effectively so you have a cohesive team. Additionally knowing what policies and guidelines must be followed and how you can gain the support of the school community. When following best practice procedures a canteen can run in an economically viable and healthy manner.