School Programs

The 2007/8 National Health Survey, released in May this year, has provided some new and confronting statistics on the health of Australian school children.

The report shows us that in 2007/08, 26% of boys and 24% of girls aged 5-17 years were overweight/obese.  The same report suggests that while 61% of children consume the recommended 2 serves of fruit per day, just 6% of children aged 5-17 are consuming the recommended  5 serves of vegetables per day.

The link between inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, inadequate levels of physical activity, and prevalence of childhood obesity is well established.   It is also well established that childhood obesity, more often than not, transgresses into obesity during the adult years.  This poses a significant health concern, as chronic overweight/obesity can lead to a number of serious diseases such as: heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension and even some forms of cancer.

In answer to this, several health-promoting school initiatives have been developed within Victoria, addressing the concerns of inactivity and diet. These include programs initiated by government, community and industry bodies.

Here we bring you information and contacts for programs and activities that are designed to support schools, students and parent/teacher bodies to encourage children and families to adopt healthier eating and lifestyle practices.

While much more still needs to be done within the family, community and school environments to improve the health and wellbeing of Australia’s children – let’s support these fantastic programs, and hope that this is just the start of what is to come.

If there are any other organizations that wish to include details of similar programs, materials or contacts on this page, please contact us.

Fruit + Veg Program

The aim of the Fruit + Veg Program is to increase the consumption of fruit and vegetables by primary school children and their families.

MarketFresh Schools Program

This program is designed to educate children about the importance of fruit and vegetables in their diets, and the processes involved in bringing fresh produce to their homes.

Go For Your Life

‘Go For Your Life’ is a Victorian Government Initiative which aims to promote healthy eating and physical activities through a range of programs that include: Free Fruit Friday, Healthy Canteen Kit, Healthy Start Schools and the Kitchen Garden Project with Stephanie Alexander.

Industry Excursions for Schools and Training Organisations

Want to get your students or trainees out of the classroom to experience and learn first hand about agricultural production, processing or supply chain operations? Here we list some of the activities that you may wish to consider.