Annette Ellis MP, Member for Canberra joined with ACT Senator Kate Lundy today to invite primary schools in the ACT to register their interest in becoming part of Labor’s Kitchen Garden Program with Stephanie Alexander.
“The Kitchen Garden Program tackles childhood obesity by getting children growing their own vegetables, cooking and learning about food as part of the school curriculum”, Ms Ellis said.
Ms Ellis and Senator Lundy were presenting the book on which the program is based, “Kitchen Garden Cooking with Kids” to the Hughes Primary School.
Established by renowned restaurateur Stephanie Alexander the Kitchen Garden Program is currently running in a number of Victorian primary schools.
Annette Ellis is inviting local schools to register their interest in being part of the program.
“Labor will fund 190 primary schools across Australia and I am keen for my local schools to have a chance to be part of this exciting project that introduces kids to great food in a fun setting,” Ms Ellis said.
Annette Ellis explained that schools can apply to the program which will provide up to $60,000 to establish kitchen and garden facilities at the school, plus curriculum support through the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation.
“The Kitchen Garden Program helps tackle the rising trend in childhood obesity by getting children to grow, cook and eat healthy food at school” said Senator Kate Lundy
“As Shadow Minister for Health Promotion, parents are always telling me that they are looking for ways to encourage healthy eating habits.
“This innovative program combines physical activity and learning about the environment with healthy eating and adventurous cooking in the kitchen,” Senator Lundy said.
“Labor’s Kitchen Garden program makes healthy eating fun for children. They are proud of growing and preparing food for each other,” Senator Lundy said.
“Some schools in the ACT, such as Hughes Primary School, already have a vegie garden, but this program may allow these schools to extend their programs further,” ACT Education Minister Andrew Barr said.
“Doing this all within a school program is a method that children respond to,” Minister Barr said.
“Let’s get this project cooking in Canberra!” Annette Ellis urged.
Any parent, principal or teacher who is interested in establishing the program in their school can contact the offices of Annette Ellis, Bob McMullan or Senator Lundy for more information.
Media contacts: Ashley Musgrove (Ellis) on 0419 02 0419 and Rachel Allen (Lundy) on 0418 488 295
