The Government has announced that an additional half a million children will be able to access free breakfast clubs starting next year. This initiative, spearheaded by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, aims to extend the program to 2,000 more schools, benefitting families across the country. Since its inception in April, over two million meals have been served in 750 schools.
Phillipson expressed her pride in the positive impact of the breakfast club policy, citing a recent visit to a club in Kettering where 100 children were served. She highlighted how the clubs not only assist families facing financial challenges but also provide a nurturing start to the school day for children, enhancing their readiness to learn.
Schools interested in joining the program can apply for the upcoming cohort, scheduled to commence in April and expand further in September. Over £80 million will be invested to broaden the reach of breakfast clubs, with the goal of having them established in all schools by the end of the current Parliament.
Phillipson emphasized the swift implementation of the free breakfast clubs and their alignment with Labour’s values. She noted that alongside the significant expansion of free school meals next year, these initiatives will greatly impact children’s opportunities in life. Additionally, starting from next September, families receiving Universal Credit will be eligible for free school meals.
The introduction of school breakfast clubs is a key commitment outlined in the Government’s manifesto. It is projected to save parents up to £450 in childcare expenses and provide them with an additional 95 hours annually. Research indicates that eight out of ten families believe that breakfast clubs facilitate timely work routines and smoother school drop-offs.