“It’s a whole different outlook about food.”

Program/sponsor: health 4 schools program

Location: Gloucestershire, England

Working to improve lives
The health 4 schools program is designed to engage students in the elements of a healthy lifestyle by promoting breakfast, gardening, cooking and active playing.

How Kraft helps make a difference
Kraft has donated about $1 million since 2004 to launch the health 4 schools program at 75 schools in Gloucestershire, England.

Real-life Results
A mini revolution has occurred at the Pillowell Primary Community School over the past two years. Funded through health 4 schools, a new, hands-on kitchen hosts cooking classes for students every afternoon.

Food is growing everywhere.  Beans sprout from tubs scattered around school grounds and tomatoes shoot out of an old army-boat-turned-planter. A large garden grows three types of lettuce, which students eat in lunchtime salads.   Parents gather after school to cook with teachers or sample the foods their children prepare. 

The children have stopped rushing through lunch and now discuss their food in a welcoming cafeteria sporting tablecloths, flowers and music.  When the weather warms up, students sit outside at café style tables. They rarely bring potato chips anymore, choosing to spice up their lunches with pita bread, wraps, fruits and vegetables.

“We don't always take stock enough of the positive impact that health 4 schools is having here in Gloucestershire.  Not only do we see this within the schools and for the young people taking part, but it is also making a difference within the wider circles of health and education in this area in the county.”