Free school meals for all pupils in compulsory education in Scotland

Writing as a recently retired Home Economics teacher I strongly believe that we must take urgent action to improve the health of our young people. By providing a free school meal to all pupils will undoubtedly make a huge difference. It now needs to be part of their education. Giving them a taste of real food and encourage healthy eating lifestyle for life. We (teachers) have failed their parents who all too often rely on take aways rather than cooking for family meals. From experience after lunch classes were always a challenge where pupils were lunching on Red Bull and chips. No concentration and little learning took place. At present a free school meal is provided to all pupils in Primary 1, 2,and 3. This has been a great success. It now needs to extended to all. All costs involved could easily be covered by taxing high sugar and energy drinks and sweets. Urgent action is needed if we care about Scotlands future.