First free school breakfast clubs launch
750 schools have opened their breakfast clubs today, with parents being able to benefit from up to 95 hours of free childcare and save £450 each year if their child attends every day.
School breakfast clubs, with the ‘early adopter’ scheme launching today, provide 30 minutes of free childcare and ensure children do not start school hungry, and are open to all children across the country. The first clubs have been rolled out, with more to follow as the scheme gathers momentum.
Alongside further government support such as the expansion of government-funded childcare and a new school uniform cap on branded items, parents could save up to £8,000 on school-related childcare costs.
Beyond financial incentives, parents also see breakfast clubs as a way to improve their child’s wellbeing, with 30 per cent of parents seeing them as an opportunity for their children to socialise and 28 per cent see them as opportunities for their children to spend more time doing things they enjoy.
Education secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Free breakfast clubs are a central part of our Plan for Change. At a time when there is so much pressure on families, they provide real help with the cost of living and ensure children start the day with a nutritious meal.
“On top of the hectic school run, parents should not have to worry about how to balance work and getting their children fed and ready for school. These clubs will break down barriers and help children settle in, focus and get the most out of their learning.
“We are delivering on our promises and giving every child the best start in life while making sure families get the support they need, wherever they live.”
On the launch of the ‘early adopter’ free breakfast programme today, Paul Whitman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “There’s no doubt that a good breakfast can be positive for children’s health and help them to focus on their learning.
“While we welcome the intentions behind the programme, the initial feedback we are hearing from many school leaders participating in the pilot is that the funding just isn’t sufficient. AT a time when school budgets are already stretched, most can ill-afford to subsidise his shortfall.
“It’s absolutely crucial that this is addressed before the scheme is rolled out nationally, and we have been encouraged to receive assurance form the Department for Education that funding will be looked at carefully when this trial is being assessed.”
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