First schools confirmed for free breakfast clubs

The first 750 schools have been selected to offer free breakfast clubs, as part of the government’s national roll out.

From April, chosen schools across all nine regions will kick-off the programme, with an early adopter phase set to inform the government about future implementation.

The early adopter schools will offer a free breakfast and at least 30 minutes of free childcare, every day, helping to support parents getting into work by dropping their children off half an hour earlier. 

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: "Free breakfast clubs sit right at the heart of our Plan for Change, breaking the link between background and success for families all over the country.  

"Breakfast clubs can have a transformative impact on the lives of children, feeding hungry tummies and fuelling hungry minds, so every child begins the day ready to learn. 

"Alongside our plans to roll out school-based nurseries and get thousands more children school-ready, this government is delivering the reforms needed to give every child, wherever they grow up, the best start in life."

Schools were chosen from across England to ensure the scheme tests and learns from a variety of locations, including those that do not currently run a breakfast club, and all will receive funding to cover food and staffing costs.

Early adopter schools inform future of the national breakfast club policy, contributing directly to its implementation.