2m meals served at free breakfast clubs

Two million meals have been served so far in the first wave of the government’s free breakfast club scheme.

What’s on offer?

Since April, hundreds of primary schools have been offering a free breakfast, including cereal, toast and fruit, and at least 30 minutes of free childcare every day.

The clubs are free to attend and run before the school day begins. 

Not only does it make sure children are fed and able to settle in before lessons start, it also means parents get an extra half hour in the morning to manage work, commuting or other responsibilities.

It’s expected to save families up to £450 a year in childcare costs.

The government is aiming to eventually roll out free breakfast clubs in every primary school in England.

Who can use them?

If your child’s school is part of the scheme, they should be in touch with the details. 

You won’t need to apply or prove anything because the free breakfast clubs aren’t means-tested or linked to income.

They’re open to all primary-aged children at participating schools.

Parents feeling the benefits

Since free breakfast clubs were launched, almost a third of parents who’ve used them think their children have been more focused in lessons.

Meanwhile, nearly half think it’s easier to get their child out of bed and into school.

Annika Fox, a mum of two young children, is among those to benefit from the government’s free breakfast clubs, describing them as a “lifesaver”.

“As a full-time executive assistant, and often being the only adult in the house, I have to juggle getting two small kids ready for the day - all prior to commuting into London three times a week,” she said.

“The club gives me the flexibility I need, tripling the time I have to make drop off in the morning and making sure that my son isn’t rushed in the morning.”    

Government urges parents to take advantage of the scheme

Education secretary Bridget Phillipson has praised the “immediate and direct impact” of the scheme so far, saying it’s “easing the pressures on working families”.

“We know parents are living busy lives, juggling family time and jobs, so I urge all parents who can to make use of the clubs,” she commented.

Ms Phillipson added that all children deserve the chance “to start the day supported and ready to learn”.