Healthy Choices

As a 5 Star Sustainable School, Eltham North felt that joining the Healthy Eating Schools program was an ideal way to integrate both environmental and healthy eating practices and behaviours.

We promoted action and change within the school, incorporating nutrition studies across different learning areas.

We have incorporated fruit and vegetable breaks in class; the use of water fountains and water bottles for classrooms (hydration program) and included breakfast activities as special events.

We have vegetable gardens and grow herbs. Three orchard areas have been planted with stone and citrus fruits. Student environmental leaders have been instrumental in creating an active sustainable environment. The school website and displays in the atrium promote the Good Food Guide and healthy lunch boxes. To minimise waste and promote recycling we encourage children not to bring packaging in their lunch boxes.

Information on healthy lunches and healthy eating for children has been provided to families in the form of newsletter inserts, healthy lunchbox posters, a photographic healthy lunchbox display, newsletters and emails reaching all families. What are the lasting benefits of the project?

Changes to healthier lunchboxes have included an increase in fruit and vegetables, changes to higher fibre foods and a decrease in high fat, nutrient poor packaged snacks. Parents have reported increased skills and practice in reading labels and choosing healthier products at the supermarket and increased knowledge of food and drink.

Our evaluation of feedback has reported an increased capacity, awareness and commitment in providing and promoting healthy food choices. Sustainability strategies employed by the Program are providing us with resources that allow school staff to continue to maintain the healthy eating messages and education.