The programme encourages pupils to consume milk and dairy products as part of a balanced diet, and plays an important educational role by encouraging the adoption of healthy eating patterns.
Through the School Milk Scheme, subsidies are provided so that milk and dairy foods can be provided to children in primary and special education schools at a reduced cost.
Parents make a contribution towards the cost, which varies between each Education Authority region in Northern Ireland, but on average, the 189ml carton of school milk is around 20p… fantastic value when you consider the benefits it can provide!
It has been confirmed that the School Milk Scheme (previously the EU School Milk Scheme) will continue, with funding in place to allow the Scheme to operate until at least the end of 2023/2024.
For younger children, the Day Care Foods Scheme enables children under five to receive, free of charge, 189ml of milk each day they attend approved day care facilities for two hours or more.
The Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety for Northern Ireland is responsible for the legislation governing the scheme, and the Business Services Organisation administrates the scheme on the Department’s behalf.