Nutrition education in primary schools in Hampshire

A random sample of headteachers in 150 primary schools in Hampshire were sent a questionnaire on nutrition teaching and use of tuck shops. The response rate was 90%. Nutrition was taught either directly or indirectly in 96% of the schools, although only 33% of schools had a policy concerning nutrition education. Having a policy was related to the aspects of nutrition which were taught and the subject areas where nutrition was included. Sixty-nine per cent of headteachers felt that staff would like more information or advice on nutrition education and this may have affected the low numbers of schools involved in taking any new initiatives to promote nutrition and healthy eating. Children were allowed to bring sweets in to 30% of schools and tuck shops were available in 22%. However, in 61% of schools children were only allowed to bring in fruit or vegetable snacks (apart from a packed lunch). It appears that schools are teaching nutrition but many lack information to help with the teaching.