WHOROULY Primary School has embraced healthy eating as part of a new, student-led approach to the statewide Vic Kids Eat Well initiative.

Supported by the Victorian government and delivered by Cancer Council Victoria, the Vic Kids Eat Well initiative is a free movement that provides Outside School Hours Care Services (OSHC), schools, sports clubs, council and community-run organisations with the resources to give kids the healthy start they deserve.

With the support of Gateway Health, OSHC students were to get involved with upgrading their food menu to include nutritious and healthy options.

Whorouly Primary School's OSHC coordinator, Kylie McAuliffe, said involving students with the process was key to introducing new food options they would enjoy.

A tasting session was held for students to explore healthy and nutritious options which could make their way to the menu.

“As part of Vic Kids Eat Well’s 'bite-sized' changes, OSHC students are now offered a variety of fresh, tasty and nourishing snack options that include fruit and vegetables, such as berries and carrot and celery sticks," Ms McAuliffe said.

"We know the consumption of fruit and vegetables is important for both physical health as well as mental health and wellbeing, so we’re really pleased with this shift."

The service also swapped juice boxes for milk and water at both breakfast and afternoon tea.

OSHC is supported locally by Felicity Kennedy, a dedicated health promotion professional from Gateway Health.

“It was great to chat with the kids and to base the new menu on their preferences," Ms Kennedy said.

"It means the new food options are more likely to be consumed and enjoyed.

"The students also feel part of the process, empowered and have an increased understanding about nourishing foods."

Ms Kennedy commended Ms McAuliffe's efforts to implement such beneficial changes, and said students and families are responding to the transition positively.

"It's a pleasure working with a coordinator and school that are so willing to explore change; we’re seeing the benefits for everyone,” she said.