Kedgley and Maharey chop fruit for school nutrition fund

Green Party Health Spokesperson Sue Kedgley and Education Minister Steve Maharey will launch a $3 million a year "Nutrition Fund" by preparing fruit for students at a Wellington school tomorrow.

The four-year fund for schools and early childhood centre initiatives to encourage healthy was part of the Greens' post election agreement with the government.

Ms Kedgley said St Anne's School in Newtown had been chosen for the fund's launch because of its healthy environment.

"St Anne's school has been chosen for the launch because it is a model of a healthy school environment, with only healthy food and water available in school, water coolers in each classroom, shared fruit for morning tea, and water bottles rather than chocolate sold as school fundraisers," she said.

"Schools like St Anne's which only provide healthy food and drink for pupils, have found marked improvements in the behaviour of children: children are calmer and more ready to learn.

"By improving food and drink in schools, the Nutrition Fund will result in better behaviour and learning in classrooms, as well as improved health and well-being for children."

- NZHERALD STAFF