School Food Trust Chief Executive Judy Hargadon has given her response to a new poll on school buildings and their impact on pupil behaviour.
In the survey of 503 teachers – conducted by the Teacher Support Network and the British Council for School Environments (BCSE) with the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) – almost 96% said that the school environment had an influence on pupil behaviour, with just over 52% believing that their surroundings had a negative effect.
It follows separate research from the School Food Trust which found that improving the school canteen environment – along with serving good school food – does improve children’s behaviour and focus for their afternoon lessons.
Judy said: “Children tell us that a good lunchtime can quite literally make or break their school day. The environment in which they eat can be a big turn-off for trying a healthy school lunch – which is really important to fuel them up for the afternoon.
“That’s why we’re helping schools find practical, low-cost ways to improve their canteens. Small things like adding tablecloths, music or changing seating around can all help encourage children to try good school food – which in turn can make a real difference to their behaviour, performance and health.”
The Trust’s research on school lunch and behaviour can be read in full by clicking on the links below.
