It's vitally important that children learn the habit of eating well when they are young. Eating well makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight, makes children more likely to do better academically at school, and improves concentration and behaviour.
Healthy Schools should make sure that children and young people have the confidence, skills and understanding to make healthy food choices. Healthy and nutritious food and drink should be available across the school day including at breakfast clubs and breaks. The school should have a welcoming eating environment which encourages positive social interaction.
Healthy eating should be high on the school's agenda but as well as having important policies in place there should be wide involvement from staff and children and young people, as well as parents and the community.
Children and young people should be consulted about food choices through groups such as the school council. Staff should be trained and enthusiastic about food education, including diet, nutrition, food safety and hygiene.