LOBSTERS and oysters are on the menu this week at Galashiels Academy, writes Rory Dunlop.

Pupils from all of the 11 primary schools in the catchment area will enjoy the taste of the sea during a week of demonstrations and workshops.

And the Academy pupils themselves will also be tucking into the fish dishes.

A total of 350 children will attend three different Seafood in Schools workshops yesterday (Tuesday) and today (Wednesday).

The pupils will learn about how seafood arrives on their plates and why it is important for a healthy diet.

Sandy Ritchie, of the Anglo Scottish Fishermen's Association is hosting one of the workshops. He told us: “I love working with the kids, because they are so eager to learn about what life is like at sea.

"I'm always surprised by the number of pupils who clamour to handle the fish and shellfish!”

The tasty seafood on offer at the Academy is supplied by Seafood in Schools supporter George Campbell of Perth, while Delfour Hatchery in Kincraig is supplying the trout.

Catriona Frankitti from Fish for Health will be delivering her Come Dine with Cat workshop where pupils learn about the benefits of exercise and a diet high in Omega 3.

She said: "It's really exciting watching the expressions on children's faces when they try something they have never eaten before, then getting a big smile and a thumbs up.”

Chef Alan Frost will be aided by senior pupils in demonstrating some quick and easy dishes of the day.

This demonstration includes recipes to be taken home, which Alan hopes will be used regularly around mealtimes.

Seafood in Schools coordinator Ruathy Donald has organised informal drop in sessions during lunchtimes this week to demonstrate how seafood can be used for learning along with what jobs are available in the seafood industry.

Ruathy added: "Lots of pupils come along to these sessions and many are surprised to find out how complex our seafood industry really is."

All schools taking part in the workshops will undertake a seafood- based project.

In addition to classroom activities, a community event to promote seafood also took place last night.