Home Economics is an optional subject offered in secondary schools. The subject encompasses a wide range of life skills enabling pupils to improve their quality of life. One aspect of which is food, nutrition and health. This study targeted Form 4 pupils aged 14 to 15 in Malta and Gozo. This age group was chosen as it is characterized by multiple changes in attitudes and behavior in which peer pressure, likes and dislikes and experiences can be influential on decision-making. In order to assess the influence of nutritional knowledge gained from Home Economics, the nutritional quality of foods consumed in packed lunches was evaluated. Through the use of a questionnaire, comparisons were made between pupils studying Home Economics and pupils without the Home Economics subject.

Results indicated that the majority of packed lunches were unhealthy, repetitive and uninteresting irrespective of the increased nutrition education to Home Economics pupils. Pupils were aware of the importance of healthy eating but had lacked the application of knowledge to their daily lifestyles. Home Economics teachers were also interviewed to identify their perceptions of the nutritional knowledge and practice of pupils. The teaching strategies adopted to make students aware of the consequences of the consumption of healthy packed lunches were also explored. A presentation targeting parents of Form 4 pupils was developed.

Overall, the results of the study indicate the need of providing pupils in local schools with enforced healthy eating regulations and regular healthy eating initiatives enabling pupils to apply their nutritional knowledge into practice. Parent education must also be considered.

B.Ed.(Hons)

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