In a significant move to support student well-being, the ACT Government has initiated the Meals in Schools pilot program. Starting from August 2024, students at five public schools in the Australian Capital Territory will receive free breakfast and lunch three days a week. This initiative, funded by the 2024–25 ACT Budget, aims to enhance students’ nutrition and learning outcomes. The pilot will run until July 2025, involving schools such as Gilmore Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School.
Enhancing Student Nutrition and Learning
The Meals in Schools pilot program is designed to provide nutritious meals to students, ensuring they have the energy and focus needed for their studies. The program includes a variety of healthy options like yoghurt, fruit, vegetables, frittata, wraps, and salads. These meals are assessed by the ACT Nutrition Support Service, which employs Accredited Practising Dietitians dedicated to promoting positive food relationships among children. By offering these meals, the program aims to improve students’ overall well-being and academic performance.
Participating schools will share their full menus with families as the program begins. The initiative also includes opportunities for feedback from families, students, and staff to evaluate its effectiveness. This feedback will be crucial for the Education Directorate to assess the program’s impact and make necessary adjustments.
The pilot program is part of a broader effort to address food insecurity and ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals. By providing free meals, the ACT Government hopes to create a supportive learning environment where students can thrive.
Implementation and Timeline
The Meals in Schools pilot program will be rolled out in phases, starting with meal deliveries to Gilmore and Richardson primary schools from the week commencing 29 July. Narrabundah Early Childhood School and Gold Creek School will begin receiving meals from the week of 5 August, followed by Melba Copland Secondary School’s college campus from the week of 12 August. The Embrace Disability Group, a catering organization with experience in the ACT and Jerrabomberra region, has been contracted to provide the meals.
Embrace Disability Group is known for offering real-life working opportunities and hospitality training for people with disabilities. Their involvement in the program not only ensures high-quality meal preparation but also supports the inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities in the workforce.
The phased implementation allows for a smooth transition and ensures that each school is adequately prepared to participate in the program. The ACT Government is committed to working closely with schools and communities to tailor the program to meet their specific needs.
Importance of Good Nutrition in Schools
Good nutrition plays a vital role in students’ learning and overall well-being. Research shows that children who have access to nutritious meals are more likely to perform better academically and have improved concentration and behavior. The Meals in Schools pilot program aims to address these needs by providing consistent access to healthy food options.
The program also includes nutrition education, helping students understand the importance of healthy eating habits. By fostering a positive relationship with food, the initiative seeks to instill lifelong healthy eating practices in students. The ACT Nutrition Support Service will continue to provide guidance and support to schools, canteens, and teachers throughout the pilot.
Feedback from the school community will be instrumental in shaping the future of the program. The Education Directorate will use this feedback to evaluate the pilot’s success and determine the best approach for expanding the initiative to more schools in the future.