DRINKING plenty of water can improve pupils' attainment, according to a Malvern primary school.

The Wyche has invested in water coolers for the children and believes the move has boosted pupils' productivity and attainment.

Headteacher Geoff Rutherford said: "There's research to show that when children take water on board, their academic performance increases. So, along with many other schools, we've invested in water coolers."

A similar scheme was introduced at St Joseph's RC Primary in 2002, when children were given free bottles of mineral water.

They were allowed to re-fill their bottles with water but were banned from drinking any other type of drink.

Squash and fizzy drinks can have a marked effect on pupil's behaviour, making some hyperactive and disruptive.

Lynne Phoenix, head of Longdon St Mary's Primary, said: "Certainly some children have quite a noticeable reaction to orange squash because of all the additives.

"I've had experience of children who have behaved in a very illogical manner when they've drunk it. When the parents removed it, their behaviour improved."