The 5 A Day School Scheme: What Is It And How Does It Work?

Schools are working towards implementing a new School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme, also known as SFVS, in order to help children get their daily intake of fruit and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are a great source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre, and are a necessary part of a healthy and balanced diet. As with adults, children are advised to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, but most children in the UK only eat a maximum of two portions a day.

If your child is aged four to six, and attends infants, primary or schools maintained by the Local Education Authority, they are entitled to receive a piece of fruit or vegetable free of charge each day of school. Not only does this contribute to their five a day, but it also helps to raise awareness of the benefits of eating a balanced diet. The produce itself is delivered to schools three times a week, so that it is as fresh as possible, and offers a range of items for children to choose from, from bananas, pears and satsumas, to tomatoes and carrots.

There are other opportunities for children to increase their intake of fruit and vegetables – school lunches, for example, must contain at least one portion of fruit and another of vegetables every day. It is also encouraged for schools to utilise in-season produce so that children are educated about the food they are eating. Likewise, all food outlets within schools must contain healthy options, including tuck shops and breakfast clubs, which should have plenty of fruit and vegetable for children to choose from.

It can be difficult sometimes to get children to eat their greens and fill up on fruit rather than crisps and sweets, but this new initiative may encourage children to make healthier choices and learn about the importance of eating a balanced diet.