09/09/04 -SHELDON STARS ON RADIO 4
Radio 4 came to Sheldon on September 8th to look at pupils' choices of food for lunch and break.
Reporter Roger Harrabin (right) interviewed pupils having their lunch and queueing to use the vending machines.
On Thursday 9th, Mr MacMahon, the head teacher, was interviewed live on The Today Programme to discuss the issue of healthy eating in schools.
The interview went out at 7.20am, a peak time for the BBC's flagship news programme. Roger Harrabin started his report by describing Sheldon as "a wonderful school" in "marvellous grounds". He then played recordings of pupils from the day before. Unfortunately, those who were featured had generally gone for less healthy options - chocolate from the vending machines and chips from the canteen.
"I explained that as a school we try to encourage pupils to make healthy choices" said Mr MacMahon. "Some people want any less healthy foods banned from schools, but I think it is better if children are encouraged to choose the healthy option, even when the alternative is available."
Mr MacMahon was disappointed that he didn't have time to talk about the importance of exercise as well as diet. "One of the strengths of Sheldon is the quality of our sport and clubs. Also, most of our pupils walk or cycle to school. The 'school run' by car is blamed by many people for the rise in childhood obesity."
