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Lorraine Barrett AM talks about the importance of nutrition in schools
posted on 21/05/2008

Speaking in a plenary, on 14th May, Lorraine Barrett AM, asked the Minister for Children, Education and Lifelong Skills, Jane Hutt, - What is the Welsh Assembly Government doing to improve nutrition in schools in Wales?

Jane Hutt: I launched the ‘Appetite for Life’ action plan on 22 November 2007. It defines the strategic direction and actions required to improve the nutritional standards of food and drink provided in schools in Wales. Work is under way with local authorities and schools to move the agenda forward.

Lorraine Barrett: Thank you for that response, Minister. I welcome the action plan, part of which is saying that it is not just about providing healthy options in schools, but involving pupils in the choices that they make and giving them an understanding of food. Therefore, will you join me in a visit to Willows High School in Tremorfa? It has an excellent hospitality and catering training centre, where pupils learn about the choice, preparation and presentation of food—something that will continue to be useful in their lives outside school when they must make choices, often on their own, about the food that they eat.

Jane Hutt: Thank you, Lorraine. I would like to visit Willows High School again to look at that facility and to recognise the important role and contribution of pupils with regard to the developments. This is part of a whole-school approach, and ‘Appetite for Life’ recognises that we need to look at the school ethos, the curriculum, the environment and links with the wider community. Those are all important if we are to take the drive for healthy eating and improving nutrition in schools to families and communities.