A 2018 survey found up to 80 per cent of Mooroopna Park Primary School students were either bringing unhealthy food with them to school or none at all.
According to principal Hayden Beaton, the flow-on effect was poor concentration in class and challenging behavioural issues.
“We had instances where kids came to school and they hadn’t eaten breakfast, they didn’t have lunch, and then they’d go home and there’s nothing for dinner,” Mr Beaton said.
In 2022, students start their day with breakfast at the school’s café prepared by full-time chef Tania Bryant, with lunch and morning and afternoon tea also provided.
The school has seen fewer behavioural issues and increased attendance as a result, with students arriving at class ready for learning and not distracted by hunger.
Mr Beaton said establishing and sustaining the healthy eating program had been of huge benefit and acknowledged the support from Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project.
“Back when we started the initiative we reached out to Lighthouse, and former staff member Vicki Scott really helped us develop the program,” Mr Beaton said.
“Lighthouse also connected the school with community members Bree Findlay and Ange Andreadis, who have supported the program with fundraising.”
Lighthouse executive officer Amy Robinson and Ms Findlay recently visited the school to hand over further funding to ensure the program continued.
“The co-designed food program partnership is a fantastic example of how community can wrap around and support our schools and young people,” Ms Robinson said.
“At Lighthouse we work in the preventative space through a collective impact approach.
“Given the rising cost of living, addressing food security at a grassroots level and empowering our local families is a critical priority, and something Lighthouse will continue to develop.”
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