30 January 2006 - Diet, Behaviour and the Junk Food Generation

A one day conference examining the relationships between diet, behaviour and learning in school-aged children.

Speakers include:

• Peter Peacock MSP, Scottish Minister for Education and Young People

• Professor Michael Crawford, Director, Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition, London Metropolitan University.

• Dr Alex Richardson, Senior Research Fellow, Dept of Physiology, Human Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford

• Mary Creagh, Presenter, Children's Food Bill (tbc)

• David Rex, Community Dietician, NHS Highland

• Lizzie Vann MBE, Founder, Organix Ltd

• Mike Marshall, Head Teacher, Greenwards Primary School, Elgin

There is currently wide-ranging concern about the dietary habits and overall fitness of children. Initially discussed in the world of academia and professional journals, the issue is now firmly in the mainstream public consciousness due, in part, to the impact of 'Jamie's School Dinners' on Channel 4.

Much of the debate and Government's response so far has been within the context of the physical health of children and young people. However, a growing body of evidence shows that diet is as important for optimal mental development and functioning. The relationship between diet, learning and behaviour is emerging as a critical issue not only from the perspectives of children who fail to realise their potential, but also for educators and others charged with delivering the education service.

With the 'Hungry for Success' initiative, Scotland has a good story to tell in terms of healthy eating in schools. The Children's Food Bill, recently presented to the UK Parliament, aspires to take the agenda further by regulating the marketing of certain classes of food to children.

This one-day conference will provide an excellent opportunity for educators and others professionally involved with school-aged children to hear from expert opinion and to share best practice in what is becoming a key issue for the future of education.