Assalamu alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
The Kirklees area sports many Muslims, in fact in some schools, it would not be regarded as an exaggeration if one was to say, that virtually all students are Muslims. In such a conducive environment, Muslim parents would exercise their parental persuasions politely and firmly, simultaneously forging excellent relations with the school teachers and especially the Head teacher to ensure that the children are afforded as much Islamic latitude as possible e.g. halaal meals, swimming alternatives etc. Personally, I think it is positive that Kirklees Council wish to provide Halaal meals. Members of the community should contact the Council in a positive strain, ensuring that the Halaal provisions are carried out correctly under the guidance of local Ulama.
In short, the conditions must be as follows:
Managed:
The Halaal food provision must be managed by reliable, trustworthy Muslims who will buy the meat or at least ensure that the meat is being bought from a reliable store. Take time to explain the concept and importance of Halaal food to canteen staff and teachers, perhaps in a presentation of some kind, so they become aware of the issues involved. In fact, once they realise the goodness and wholesomeness of Halaal, I am sure they would also partake of it. In Gloucester, we have many non-Muslims who buy Halaal meat because they know the benefits and ethical issues.
Food contamination:
Preferably Muslim staff must necessarily ensure that Halaal foods be totally separated from Haraam meats etc. Separate workstations, utensils and any other provision depending on the kitchen be provided to ensure the same.
One of our Primary Schools where the students are predominantly Muslim (70%) in Gloucestershire serve Halaal food. They have separate hatches where Halaal, vegetarian and non-Halaal meals are served. Contamination issues are adhered to; Muslim meals are cooked by a local Muslim woman. A Qari Sahib who works in the School has expressed his confidence in the system adopted and no doubt has been consulted with by the school.
If you would like to contact the Qari Sahib for assistance on this project, then please email [email protected] for contact details. 
