Student Learning

Programs – Free Fruit Friday

Frequently asked questions

Free Fruit Friday home | Guidelines | Expression of Interest  | Resources  | Curriculum  | FAQ

The Free Fruit Friday initiative has been implemented progressively in government primary schools from 2007 (up to and including Semester 1, 2011). The initiative provides free fruit and/or vegetables once a week to Prep to Year 2 children. Schools are provided with grants to implement appropriate arrangements for the purchasing of the fruit and vegetables.

Q: Why is funding only available to Prep to Year 2 students?

A: This initiative is designed to boost fruit and vegetable consumption in young children and to establish a lifetime habit of healthier eating.

Q: Do schools have to be involved in the initiative?

A: Participation in the initiative is voluntary.

Q: What is the process for applying for the grants?

A: Existing Kids: 'Go for your life' schools were invited to participate in Phase 1 (term 3, 2007), as these schools had already demonstrated a commitment to promoting the increased consumption of fruit and vegetables in their schools. Other government schools with years Prep–Year 2 enrolments were invited to join in term 4 each year for participation commencing in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Free Fruit Friday grants are paid directly to participating schools.

Q: What support is available to schools involved in the initiative?

A: Guidelines and sample contracts as well as links to useful curriculum resources such as the Healthy Canteen Kit materials are provided to support schools implement the Free Fruit Friday program.

For further information contact: free.fruit.friday@edumail.vic.gov.au

Q: How much funding is available to schools?

A: The 2007–08 Budget provided $11.1 million over four years for the Free Fruit Friday program.

Q: How long will free fruit be provided?

A: This initiative has been progressively rolled out to all government schools with Prep–Year 2 enrolments over four years from 2007. Once schools have commenced participation, funding is provided on a semester-by-semester basis for the duration of the initiative (up to and including Semester 1, 2011).

Q: What can schools purchase with their grant?

A: Schools will be able to use the grant to purchase fruit and vegetables, for example, from a local greengrocer or wholesaler.

Q: How much funding is available per student?

A: Funding is allocated on a per capita basis for students in years Prep–Year 2. It is approximately 71 cents per student per week.

Q: Are there schools already on the program?

A: Some schools have already registered with the program and are working towards, or have achieved 'award' status. These schools are compliant with the School Canteens and Other School Food Services Policy, as well as with the Physical and Sport Education Policy time allocations of:

  • Years P–3: 20–30 minutes of physical education a day
  • Years 4–6: three hours per week of physical education and sport with a minimum provision of 50 per cent for physical education.

Q: How will the Department know if the grants are being spent on fruit and vegetables?

A: Participating schools will be required to maintain documentation of expenditure.

Q: Where can schools buy fruit and vegetables?

A: Schools are encouraged to consider local community links and partnerships when choosing a supplier.

Q: What if a student has a food allergy?

A: All schools have processes for recording allergies or special health requirements of students. It is very important to be aware of this information, as students may be offered food to which they may be allergic.