What is it all about?

This project is exploring how schools can help increase vegetable consumption in children by building on the existing Pick of the Crop program. It focuses on Queensland primary schools and aims to improve students’ knowledge, attitudes and eating habits around vegetables through a whole of school approach.

The project works with schools to design and deliver practical, locally relevant activities across three areas: curriculum, the school environment and community engagement. Schools are supported by regional coordinators to adapt evidence based strategies, connect with local growers and community partners, and implement school led action plans. Activities include integrating food education into lessons, increasing access to vegetables through tuckshops or school programs, and engaging families to encourage behaviour change beyond the classroom.

A key part of the project is evaluating what works in real school settings. It uses surveys and trials to measure changes in vegetable consumption, while also identifying the factors that support long term adoption in schools. Results will be used to develop practical resources, including reports, publications and a national toolkit, to help scale effective approaches across Australia.

The project aims to deliver lasting improvements in vegetable consumption among students, strengthen links between schools and local growers, and provide clear guidance for future programs to boost demand for vegetables at a national level.