A SCHOOL has banned fizzy and flavoured drinks in a bid to improve the health and concentration of pupils.

Parents at Rhyddings Business and Enterprise School in Haworth Street, Oswaldtwistle have been sent letters recently informing them of the policy change.

It comes after the school barred energy and high sugar drinks from its premises, with the ban now extended to fizzy and flavoured ones.

Headteacher Paul Trickett said in the letter that water will instead be sold on the site at a cost of 20p for a 500ml bottle.

The letter reads: “As a school for many years, we have been committed to making sure that food and drinks available in the school are healthy.

“As research shows, this is better for our students’ learning.

“It was for this reason that all energy drinks were banned from school and drinks high in sugars and additives were not sold on our premises.

“In a drive to further improve the health of our students, I have decided to take this initiative further and ensure that no fizzy/flavoured drinks will be available in school from today.

“Instead bottled water will be sold at a price of 20p per 500ml bottle.

“I seek your support in requesting that you only provide your children with water to bring into school as other drinks will no longer be permitted.

“Thank you for your continued support.”

And the ban has sparked a mixed reaction from people on Facebook.

Joanne Aspin said: “To not be allowed juice in school is a joke. I’m all for healthy eating but I think this is taking things to far.”

Joanne Clarke said: “What if a child doesn’t like plain water? Are they going to be left with nothing to drink all day?”

But Dorrie Partington said: “Fantastic idea! Lots of schools have taken the same approach. You will have my full support.”

Joanne McCrae added: “I think this is a great way to model to our youngsters what is healthy for our bodies.”