Free school meal gives children a health kick

Wednesday 04 June 2008

Rebecca Spencer, Bexley Care Trust's food-in-schools co-ordinator says "Having a guaranteed healthy balanced meal at least once a day makes sure children are eating what's right for them".

More than 200 Bexley children received a free school meal last Friday as part of a drive by Harrison Catering, Bexley Care Trust and the London Borough of Bexley to boost the uptake of healthy school dinners across the borough.

As with all menus offered by Harrison at 56 Bexley schools, the menu was nutritionally balanced as well as being tasty. Children could choose from chicken and rice, salmon, pasta and a choice of seasonal vegetables. For pudding, fresh fruit or carrot cake, which was chosen by the school council, rounded off the meal.

Rebecca Spencer, Bexley Care Trust's food-in-schools co-ordinator says "Having a guaranteed healthy balanced meal at least once a day makes sure children are eating what's right for them".

"The Food in Schools Programme also contributes to reducing obesity in children, which in turn will reduce the risk of other health problems associated with poor diet and being overweight. It's only one part of leading a healthy lifestyle, but it's very important."

London Borough of Bexley's Cabinet Member for Schools, Adult Education and Youth Services, Cllr Simon Windle says "Since Harrison Catering took over the school dinner contract with their new style healthier menus we have seen a marked increase in the number of our children choosing school dinners and the feedback so far has been fantastic".

"There is evidence to suggest that eating a healthy meal at lunchtime increases concentration levels amongst pupils and many teachers claim pupils eating a daily school dinner display a marked improvement in their behaviour. Introducing healthy eating habits at such a young age can only be a good thing and I look forward to seeing similar events in schools across the borough."

Current uptake of school meals is about 24% of primary school children in Bexley, with many families choosing to provide a packed lunch instead.

School meals usually cost £1.85 a day, but there is help available for lower income families. No cash changes hands in the school canteen. This is all done in the privacy of the school office, which means that when it comes to lunchtime everyone can focus on tucking into their dinner rather than worrying about paying out money.

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