Students at five ACT public schools are set to benefit from a pilot free meals program, providing free breakfast and lunch three days a week, later this year.

Gilmore Primary School, Richardson Primary School, Narrabundah Early Childhood School, Gold Creek School (high school campus), and Melba Copland Secondary School senior campus (years 10-12) will take part in the $1.462 million Meals in Schools pilot funded by the ACT government.

The program will begin in term 3 this year. The pilot will run for 18 months.

“Children and young people learn best on a full stomach,” education minister Yvette Berry said.

“National and international research shows that students benefit from access to healthy and nutritious food at school. It improves students’ learning and wellbeing, gives them a better understanding of nutrition, and increases their satisfaction with school.”

The Meals in Schools pilot will be delivered in collaboration with school communities, including Parents & Citizens Associations. Teachers, students, parents, and carers will help ensure the pilot meets the needs of their school community.

“We anticipate there will be a range of different food delivery models,” Ms Berry said. “For example, a grab-and-go option may work better for senior students.”

An independent evaluation process will track how many students use the program, student satisfaction, and how effective the program is.

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