27th Jun 2008 - 00:00
Abstract
More than 200 Bexley children received a free school meal earlier this month as part of a drive by Harrison Catering, Bexley Care Trust and the London Borough of Bexley, to boost the uptake of healthy school meals across the borough.
Children could choose from chicken and rice, salmon, pasta and a choice of seasonal vegetables and for pudding, fresh fruit or carrot cake, which was chosen by the school council.
Cllr Simon Windle, London Borough of Bexley's Cabinet member for Schools, Adult Education and Youth Services, commented: "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 dinners and the feedback so far has been fantastic."
He continued: "There is evidence to suggest that eating a healthier 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 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."
School meals usually cost £1.85 each, but there is help available for lower income families.