Primary schools in Cyprus are returning on Monday. How much do snacks cost?

On Monday, September 14, the new school year will begin in Cypriot primary schools and public preschools. A total of 52,186 students will return to 328 primary schools, and 14,398 children will begin school in 274 preschools. 8,919 students will be enrolled in the first grades.

When classes begin, the approved school cafeteria price list will come into effect. Licensed operators must adhere to the established prices. The cheapest item is a small bottle of water for 30 cents, while a large sandwich with halloumi, cheese, lountza, or roast pork costs €2.30.

Over 66,000 children return to schools and kindergartens

According to data from the Ministry of Education, 5,232 teachers will be working in 328 primary schools. A total of 52,186 students are enrolled in these schools.

14,398 children will start school in 274 public kindergartens, cared for by 1,135 teachers.

First-graders constitute a special group. This school year, 8,919 children will begin their primary education.

Primary school students and children in pre-school education will return to their facilities one week after the return of teachers who had previously started preparing for the new year.

Prices in school cafeterias are set centrally

Products sold in school cafeterias are not selected and priced completely arbitrarily by their operators.

The list of permitted products and their maximum prices are approved by the relevant authorities. In accordance with applicable regulations, this price list must be adhered to by all licensed cafeteria operators operating in primary schools.

The main items available are sandwiches, traditional pastries, milk, juices, water and fresh fruit.

How much can a snack cost for a child?

A simple set consisting of a small sandwich and a small bottle of water costs €1.80. A large sandwich and orange juice will cost a total of €3.25.

A cheaper set with fresh fruit and light milk costs €1.10. If a child bought this set every day for five school days, the weekly cost would be €5.50.

For example, if you buy a large sandwich and juice every day, the cost can exceed €16 per week. The final cost depends primarily on the product chosen and whether your child brings some food and drinks from home.

Not every product can be found in the school cafeteria.

School outlets must offer products from an approved list. Restrictions apply not only to prices but also to the types of food and beverages available to children.

Individual schools may offer different offerings, particularly milk, juice, and products from different manufacturers. The official price list also includes additional flavors and organic juices, with prices varying by brand and volume.

Parents can check the price list available at their school. If the cafeteria charges higher prices for items included in the official list, the matter can be reported to the school's administration.

The new year also starts with problems

Students' return comes at a time when schools are also preparing for several organizational changes. At the same time, some institutions will have to begin classes without all printed textbooks.

The Ministry of Education previously announced that the delivery of some books to primary schools might not be completed until mid-October. Until then, teachers will be using electronic materials, workbooks, and other teaching aids.

Despite these difficulties, the ministry assures that classes will be conducted in accordance with the curriculum.

Sources: Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth, Philenews.

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