Doncaster is one of only a handful of councils where the national Fruit and Vegetables in Schools scheme has been extended right across all primary schools. Elsewhere it is only infant children up to 7 years of age that are given a free daily portion of fruit as part of the Fruit into Schools program, but we take the view that all children, right up to the age of 11 should benefit from this.
Each year over one million pieces of fruit and vegetables are handed out with the aim of improving the health of our children and educational attainment at the same time.
Teacher, children and parents who took part in the Fruit in Schools trial, reported a better atmosphere in the class, with children being more attentive and improved behaviour. Children were also eating more fruit at home.
It is well known that eating fresh fruit provides plenty of vitamins and minerals to growing bodies and is a healthy option for children to snack on. There is clear evidence that eating more fruit and vegetables and having a well balanced diet helps reduce the risk of two main killer diseases in this country - heart disease and some cancers, plus a number of other ailments.
Under the Fruit in Schools' scheme, every primary school in the Borough will receive fruit and vegetables such as apples, pears, bananas and carrots, which will be given to children under 11 years within the school.
