School Food Plan director stresses importance of UIFSM
Myles Bremner, director of the School Food Plan, has reiterated the importance of Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) and reminded the industry of the Government’s commitment in response to reports that cast doubt over the future of the scheme.
Bremner said: “The vast majority of headteachers believe in the policy. Whilst some have challenged the funding of it and some have faced issues with pupil premium, they recognise the positive impact a nutritious school lunch is having on pupils’ health, wellbeing and attitude to learning.
“The policy is also good for the local economy as it creates more jobs, and promotes sourcing of local food.”
The scheme was introduced under the coalition and the Conservative party committed to the continuation of UIFSM in its manifesto ahead of the general election.
The implementation of UIFSM has seen a take up rate of 85.5%, which equates to 1.6 million infant children eating a free school meal.
Bremner also reminded people of David Cameron’s commitment to tackle child obesity.
The Prime Minister said: “When you look at the most disturbing figures it's the fact that 10% of children go into primary school obese, but 20% are coming out of primary school obese.
“There's no doubt that the next phase of improving the health of the nation, preventive health and better health is going to be absolutely key, but I think the real focus should be how we tackle 10% to 20% problem in primary schools.
“So it's a combination of diet, exercise and how we talk to children and parents about this vital issue.”
A recent School Food Plan commissioned survey, which is yet to be published, found that 86% of parents intend for their child to continue having school meals when they move into Key Stage two.
Bremner’s comments follow recent reports in national newspapers that suggested the future of UIFSM is in doubt due to the cost of the scheme. The Daily Mail reported that sources in Whitehall are ready to scrap the scheme, whilst The Telegraph raised concerns over low take up in some areas.