Dad’s anger as Kiveton school “bans” flavoured water

Shaun Wasteny said Daniela was ordered not to drink a bottle of strawberry-flavoured Perfectly Clear water she took to Kiveton Park Meadows Juniors.

He said Daniela (10) did not like the taste of plain water and drinking it made her feel ill.

“She’s not allowed to drink water that contains any flavouring at all,” Shaun said.

“I checked the label and this water contains nothing. No sugar, no saturates, no fat. It’s extremely healthy but the school will not allow Daniela to drink it.”

Year 5 pupil Daniela has school meals rather than a packed lunch and Shaun said he understood that pupils choosing that option could only have water provided by the school. 

The dad, of Lodge Hill Drive, Wales, said Daniela had been taking medication for an ongoing health problem and he was concerned about how the ban could affect her health.

“On the day they stopped her drinking water it was about 70 degrees outside,” he said. “She will not drink normal water and never has at all.

“Daniela’s mum thinks the decision is ludicrous, not just because she’s ill but because it’s hot and children can’t take in water that is perfectly healthy to drink.

“If push comes to shove, I will take Daniela out of that school and take her to another one.”

Head teacher said the school promoted a positive attitude towards healthy eating and exercise and was keen to make children even healthier.

Ms Elstone added: “A number of parents and governors were involved in creating our healthy eating Food in School Policy, which includes guidance on healthy snacks and drinks as well as school dinners and packed lunches.

“This is in line with similar policies across other schools locally, regionally and nationally.

“We are glad to see most parents and children are happy to adhere to these guidelines and we will be reinforcing these again at the start of the new school year in September.”

The head would not comment on Shaun’s compaints but said: “All pupils have access to drinking water in school. 

“If any pupil has a medical condition that means they cannot drink fresh water then we are happy to talk to the parent and follow any medical advice. 

“Likewise, if any parent wishes to speak to me about any concern they may have, I am happy to do so.”