Students’ day starts with porridge served by the school

This morning, as on every school day, porridge is served in Mattliden gymnasium’s canteen. Student Emilia Hellström eats the breakfast served at school almost every day.

At Mattlidens gymnasium, students are served complimentary porridge every morning.

“It makes me feel good and gives me energy. Thanks to the porridge, I’m able to concentrate during lessons, which boosts my results at school,” says second-year student Emilia Hellström.

For many students at Mattlidens gymnasium, the journey to school takes so long that they might skip breakfast completely if porridge was not served at school.

Hellström says that she often enjoys the free porridge with her friends. The time spent together is a relaxing way to start the school day.

“It’s nice to sit in peace, chat with friends and eat before our lessons begin.”

During the week, the school serves oat, four-grain, rye and barley porridge. However, one option clearly stands out.

“Rice porridge is the most popular by far. Whenever it is served, students love it and we need to make a lot of it,” says Mattliden’s Food Service Supervisor Peter Josefsson.

“It is best with cinnamon and sugar,” Hellström confirms.

Barley porridge is also popular. One option, however, is not a favourite among students.

“They don't really like semolina,” Josefsson says with a laugh.

A variety of accompaniments, such as berry soup and fruit puree, are served as well. Friday is cereal day.

According to Josefsson, many students eat porridge at school quite often. He has noticed that young people understand the importance of a balanced diet.

“When you eat porridge in the morning and later a school lunch, you have energy for a long day.”

Josefsson believes that breakfast at school can also be a financial relief for many.

“Some of the students already live on their own. Free breakfast may be important in their everyday life.”

Omnia’s restaurants have also been serving porridge every morning for years. It is free of charge for students attending basic vocational education and preparatory training.

Text: Susanna Cygnel

This article was originally published in the Espoo-lehti magazine 2/2026. Read other Espoo-lehti articles.