Summary
Kingston upon Hull LA have been successful in their Power to Innovate application to provide free school meals to all primary and special schools and pupil referral units in Hull. The pilot scheme was introduced to the schools on a rollout basis. Primary aged pupils were offered a free healthy breakfast, free fresh fruit during the school day, a free school lunch and free refreshments were given to pupils engaged in after-school activities.
The idea
It is now thought that there is a correlation between a healthy diet and educational outcomes and that eating a good breakfast is likely to improve pupils' attainment, attendance, concentration and behaviour, as well as providing benefits to families who are socially excluded by forming closer links with the school.
Hull teachers have previously identified the benefit of children accessing breakfast clubs, with a readiness to learn, getting to school on time and improved health. Likewise children who had a substantial midday meal displayed an improved attention span in the afternoon session.
Teachers are not expected to manage the scheme unless they volunteer. Support staff would oversee the provision of fresh fruit.
top
Funding
The Innovation Unit has not provided any additional funding to financially support this proposal.
top
Consultation
Chairs of Governors and Headteachers were all invited to attend an early meeting to discuss how the pledge could be implemented. Parents, staff and trade unions have all been consulted.
top
Healthy Eating
The 'Eat Well Do Well' Conference in Hull on 30th March 2004 for Primary Care Trusts, teachers, Sure start, social workers, youth workers, education officers and voluntary and community groups concerned with children's health considered research about eating habits of schoolchildren and promoted discussion about the impact of healthy diet on educational achievement.
Former Schools Minister, Stephen Twigg, said at the 'Eat Well Do Well' Conference:
"A healthy body is a healthy mind. The health of our children is of paramount importance and the Government is absolutely committed to promoting healthy eating and encouraging schools to provide healthy meals.
Figures show that one in seven 15 year olds and one in 12 six year olds are obese. We must put this right, and headteachers have our backing 100 per cent when it comes to helping our children eat healthily. Our Healthy Eating Blueprint will provide them with full support and advice that they can access easily.
At school, giving children a good diet can have a positive impact on all aspects of their education. They have more energy, they find it easier to concentrate, and it can help boost standards."
top
|
