Aim: This project aims to evaluate the Garden to Table programme in low decile Wellington schools.
Methods: In a non-randomized evaluation over three years, schools that enrolled in Garden to Table in
Wellington, New Zealand, were invited to participate. Eligible students attended two measurement days per
year, for anthropometric measurements and a focus group. Dietary questionnaires were completed by a
guardian.
Results: Four schools and 124 children participated in the evaluation. Fruit and vegetable consumption
significantly increased with exposure to the program. After at least one year children were able to name
more vegetables and had tried more vegetables than at baseline. Children were more willing to try new
foods, but this did not reach significance. BMI was not affected.
Conclusion: The Garden to Table programme is well received by children and schools. The programme
increased children’s knowledge about and exposure to different vegetables and increased fruit and vegetable
consumption.