A Dublin school has banned fizzy drinks as part of a healthy living awareness programme.

Coolmine Community School has embarked on the two-week plan from today, with Social Protection Minister Joan Burton on hand to launch it.

Along with the ban on fizzy drinks, healthier meals are being offered and there will be a 15-minute discussion on healthy living everyday.

The school will also be offering fitness classes after school. The two week-programme was designed by students and teachers together.

Principal Patricia McPhillips says exercise will also be an element, and she hopes it will be taken up by other schools too.