Benefits
- The beneficial changes to diet are very large and long lasting.
- It is a fun experience for the whole school.
- It encourages children to taste fruit and vegetables repeatedly, so that they develop a liking for them.
- A 'culture' is developed that strongly supports the eating of fruit and vegetables.
- Children come to see themselves as 'fruit and vegetable eaters' and are very proud to be so.
- It encourages consumption of fruit and vegetables in many different contexts.
- It supports the idea of a 'health-promoting school'.
- It can improve child attendance and behaviour.
- Volunteers from the community can be involved.
- It can have a positive impact on whole families.
- And most importantly, It works!
What the teachers say
“Wonderful experience – shared by the whole school.” (Teacher)
“Great impact! The programme has helped every child.” (Headteacher)
“One or two children in my class who do not achieve a great deal in the normal run of things gained a huge amount of kudos and confidence from eating everything from day one.” (Teacher)
“Food Dudes is a very good scheme. The children benefit a huge amount from it. Their lunches are healthier, their skin, their teeth are healthier. I just think they get a huge amount from it.” (Teacher)
What the parents say
“She’s eating a lot more and she’s asking for vegetables that I’d never ever bought before… It’s fruit and veg that I thought she would never have liked, so you just don’t buy them.” (Parent)
“The project was extremely enjoyable and informative and encouraged my son to try new things. Now as a whole family we eat Swede and Mangetout, which we didn’t eat before! Thank you.” (Parent)
“My son wants fruit for his mid morning break at school now – not crisps! Thanks!” (Parent)
“He...is continually attacking the fruit bowl, and will often opt for a piece of fruit for pudding.” (Parent)
"She was willing to try more fruit and vegetables, which she has continued to eat, even though the project is over." (Parent)