Nearly half of Year 6 pupils in Nottingham are classed as overweight or obese, according to new figures.
1,595 students in that group – 44% – weighed more than the healthy amount, according to the National Childhood Measurement Programme in the 2022/23 year.
This was a slight improvement from 45% the previous year, but still above the national average of 37%.
Overall, 54% of Nottingham Year 6 children (aged 10 to 11 years old) were a healthy weight, 15% overweight, 29% obese and 2% underweight.
Councillor Linda Woodings, Portfolio Holder for Health at Nottingham City Council, said: “We recognise the number of children living with obesity or being overweight is an issue both nationally and here in Nottingham.
“It must be tackled to prevent a generation with long-term health problems.
“What children eat and drink, and how often they exercise, is vitally important for their health and wellbeing.
“Eating and Moving for Good Health has previously been identified as a priority by the Nottingham City Joint Health and Wellbeing Board.
“A wide range of partners, including representatives from Nottingham City schools, have come together to work towards ensuring ours is a city that makes it easier for adults, families, children and young people to lead healthy lives.
“Childhood obesity is a complex issue and lasting change requires the local authority and health system to work together with parents, as role models for their children, through the support of our skilled and diverse community groups – and with changes to the environment in which our children live, learn and play.
“We know there are serious health inequalities across the country and within Nottingham.
“There is much work already happening across the city to support children and families eat and move for good health, but we recognise there is more work for us all to do.”
The rate for overweight and obese children under Nottinghamshire County Council also fell in the new figures.
63% of children were considered to be a healthy weight, with 14% overweight, 22% obese and 1% underweight.
Rushcliffe was the Nottinghamshire district with the lowest obesity rate (28%), and Mansfield (40%) and Bassetlaw (39%).
