How does drinking water link to health?

• Drinking adequate amounts of water regularly throughout the day can protect health and contribute to well-being.
• Drinking adequate amounts of water can help prevent a range of short and long-term health problems from headaches, bladder, kidney and bowel problems to cancer.
• Water has none of the health problems associated with drinks containing sugar, additives, sweeteners, acids or caffeine.

How does drinking water improve learning?

• The key to boosting the capacity to learn is to keep well hydrated throughout the day.
• When we are thirsty, mental performance deteriorates by 10%
• Pupils concentrate better because they are not distracted by the effects of dehydration such as thirst, tiredness and irritability
• Can aid behaviour management by helping to settle pupils in the classroom.

Children will achieve more when both their health and learning needs are met. Ensuring free access to water and promoting a regular water intake throughout the school day is a vital role for schools in promoting health and providing a healthy learning environment