Narrabundah school program shows the way to break the poverty cycle for Aussie kids

Dr Glasson said the school's Breakfast Program is a creative approach to better learning outcomes for many of its students.

"We have to work together as a community to keep children from low socio economic families from falling into poverty," Dr Glasson said.

"This can be done without further marginalising families who already suffer the social as well as the economic burden of poverty.

"Preventive health measures could be extended to many more schools, with government and community support.

"Narrabundah Primary School is showing the way.  Its Kootara Well Program provides families with access to a GP, a community health nurse, and many other support services."

Dr Glasson said a recent Brotherhood of St Laurence study, Eleven Plus: life chances and family income, shows that most children born into poverty are still poor at 11 or 12 years of age.

"The links between low socio-economic status and poor health are well known," Dr Glasson said.

"Not only are these children economically poor, they have the double whammy of poor education and poor health.

"Poverty affects health in many ways.  The impact on physical, emotional, educational and social well-being is well documented.

"Poor children often have poor nutrition and being hungry at school means you can't concentrate and learn.  Poor nutrition also leaves children susceptible to infections, which can lead to time off school.  As a community, we have to stop this alarming cycle.

"The AMA commends Narrabundah Primary School on its innovative and compassionate approach to health and learning and helping disadvantaged families give their kids a healthier start to their lives," Dr Glasson said.

CONTACT:         Judith Tokley             (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306