A new initiative at Mooroopna Park Primary School will ensure all its students have bellies full of nutritious food every day.
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Principal Hayden Beaton said the new lunch program would begin next term, running in conjunction with the already-existing Breaky Club, which meant students would no longer need to bring a packed lunch to school.
‘‘All research and statistics show that students perform better when eating a nutritionally balanced diet,’’ he said.
‘‘Students who are eating breakfast are ready for school and ready to learn. We are just expanding on this to provide students with recess and lunch.’’
Mr Beaton said he became aware of the possibility to run the unique program after visiting Mahogany Rise Primary School in Frankston.
‘‘As far as I’m aware they are the only Victorian school running the program,’’ he said.
He explained why he wanted to take up the program at his school.
‘‘Unfortunately we have some students either coming to school without food or bringing along foods that aren’t nutritious,’’ Mr Beaton said.
‘‘This impacts on their learning, attendance and engagement at school.’’
All food will be prepared by an employed cook which the school is currently seeking.
Mr Beaton said a detailed description of the position could be found on Recruitment Online or in The News classifieds section.
The program will be supported by the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project and Mr Beaton said there was no cost for families, rather it was something the school had invested in.
‘‘We would like to thank Lighthouse for their help with the implementation of this project as well as businesses that have already committed to supporting our school,’’ Mr Beaton said.
Lighthouse’s community development co-ordinator Vicki Scott said the program would eventually be expanded to include dining sessions with local leaders and business people.
‘‘They will learn about engagement with adults and also about different jobs and professions,’’ she said.
The school now boasts an extended kitchen where a newly employed chef will be able to prepare meals for students.
‘‘We have extended our existing canteen to create a dining room and are currently sourcing appliances, crockery and furniture,’’ Mr Beaton said.
He said the school was still seeking further support and donations.
‘‘If you would like to help out or know more about the program please contact the school,’’ he said.
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