Biometric Catering System

We are pleased to inform you that our school will soon be introducing a biometric catering system in the canteen. This new system is designed to make lunchtimes quicker, safer, and more convenient for students and families.

What is the biometric catering system?

The system uses a simple fingerprint scan to identify each student when they purchase their meals.

ParentPay integration

The biometric system is fully integrated with ParentPay, allowing you to:

• Top up your child’s account via ParentPay
• View balances and transactions instantly
• Monitor your child’s meal choices with ease

Why are we introducing it?

• Convenience: No more lost money or misplaced cards
• Speed: Faster queues mean more time for students to enjoy their break
• Fairness: All students use the same system, whether they pay or receive free school meals
• Parental Oversight: Linked directly to ParentPay for easy account management
• Phones: to remove the need for mobile phones to be used in School

How does it work?

• Each student’s fingerprint is scanned and converted into a secure digital code (called a template)
• No actual fingerprint images are stored. The system only keeps encrypted data points
• This data cannot be accessed, shared, or used for any other purpose
• When a student selects their meal, they simply place their finger on the scanner, and the cost is deducted from their ParentPay account
• We will continue to accept cash payments however, Cashless payments via ParentPay are our preferred payment method. Cash purchases will not be traceable via ParentPay. Bank Card and Contactless payments will no longer be accepted

Privacy and consent

We take data protection extremely seriously. Fingerprint templates are encrypted, stored securely, and cannot be reverse-engineered into an image. No one can access your child’s fingerprint.

Before enrolling your child, we require parental consent. Consent can be given in two ways:

• By submitting consent digitally via the MCAS app. This is now LIVE for you to give consent
• Or by completing a paper form available from Reception. These are now ready to collect and should be returned to Reception

If you prefer not to give consent, your child will be issued with a PIN code instead however, this is a far less secure option and it will be your Child’s responsibility to remember and keep safe and could potentially be used by others.  

We believe this system will make school lunchtimes smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for all students.

If you have any queries regarding our new Biometric Catering System, please email madeleybromcom@madeleyacademy.com