Danielsaurus

Study Shows Improved Academic Results With Better School Dinners

Interesting results that might add some weight to Jamie Oliver’s efforts to fight childhood obesity:

Today an audience of prestigious economists was told that the healthier school dinners introduced by the celebrity chef had not only significantly improved pupils’ test results, but also cut the number of days they were off sick. The effects, researchers said, were comparable in magnitude to those seen after the introduction of the literacy hour in the 90s.

The proportion of 11-year-olds in Greenwich, south London, who did well in English and science rose after Oliver swept “turkey twizzlers” and chicken dinosaurs off canteen menus in favour of creamy coconut fish and Mexican bean wraps, according to a study of results in the south east London borough.

I haven’t read the full study yet myself, but it’s hard to argue with the idea that having a good lunch might have at least some kind of positive impact on kids in school. You could also say this provides some additional support for approaching education more holistically as well.