Information Bulletin
07 June 2006
School Meals Statistics
The Scottish Executive published statistics on 6 June 2006 relating to School Meals in Scotland 2006.
Nationally 46.1% of pupils took a meal supplied by the school. In Shetland the figures were 87% of primary pupils and 90.9% of secondary pupils, the highest in Scotland. Most pupils entitled to free school meals in primary schools are taking them. Once again the uptake in Shetland is much higher than in most local authorities. The uptake is not quite so high in secondary but once again this compares very favourably with other areas of Scotland. The Education Service is raising awareness of entitlement to free school meals.
Free chilled drinking water is available in all Shetland schools. The free fruit scheme for P1 and P2 pupils continues in all primary schools.
44% of secondary schools and 16% of the primary schools have breakfast provision.
Shetland is one of the cheapest places to buy a school meal with the cost in 2006 being £1.25 for a primary meal and £1.35 for a secondary meal. Prices throughout the country ranged from £1.00 to £1.93.
We are delighted to have the highest uptake of school meals in Scotland. We feel that this is attributed to the hard work and dedication of the catering and education staff who are trying to make the whole eating experience enjoyable. Working towards nutritionally balanced meals and the whole school approach is important. They are also good value for money and meals are well presented in pleasant surroundings.
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