This programme is closed for applications
The aim is to provide a free piece of fruit each school day, to children aged 4 to 6. Eating 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day is recommended by experts as the best way to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Children in the poorest households eat half as much fruit and vegetables as children from richer homes. By piloting the scheme across different regions and evaluating its operation, we are supporting the Government's commitment to introduce a National School Fruit Scheme from 2004.