Water Cooler Culture in the Classroom

Yet more evidence that schools are encouraging pupils to lead healthier lifestyles.

Fresh, chilled drinking water is now on tap for virtually all primary pupils. Increasing numbers of secondary pupils also have access to water during the school day, according to the latest school meals statistics published today.

The figures show that free fresh fruit is on the menu for almost all Primary 1 and 2 pupils. This health-improving measure is just one part of the Scottish Executive's "Hungry for Success" programme, which aims to improve children's health and encourage healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.

School Meals in Scotland January 2005 shows that while overall school meal uptake has decreased slightly in the past year, some councils have recorded major increases. Top performers include Dundee City Council, whose uptake of school meals in secondary schools has increased by more than 10%.

Measures under the revitalised school meals service in Scotland include:

- Free fruit for pupils in Primary 1 and 2
- New nutrient standards for school meals
- Larger portions of more nutritious food at no extra cost to families
- Fresh, chilled drinking water available free in school dining rooms and throughout the school day
- Improved facilities in school dining halls

For more information on this report go to the Scottish Executive website at:
www.scotland.gov.uk

For more information on healthy schools go to:
www.healthpromotingschools.co.uk