Would free breakfast clubs influence your school choice?

The government’s free breakfast club scheme is being expanded to more schools in April - and it’s having a very real impact on people’s day-to-day choices.

In fact, new figures show that nearly half (45%) of parents prioritise schools that offer them.

So the government is encouraging more primary schools to sign up and offer this vital service to families.

What’s on offer?

Since the launch of the scheme, 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.

The government believes it can also help working parents juggling childcare costs save up to £450 a year.

Who can use free breakfast clubs?

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.

Tackling the stigma

Another crucial benefit of free breakfast clubs is that they’re helping to overcome the perceived stigma around support for parents, in particular single parents.

Official figures show nearly four in ten (38%) single parents feel guilty when accessing free support, compared to almost a third (28%) of parents raising kids with a partner.

But six in ten (60%) parents say they’re more likely to access support if it’s available to everyone.

“I was raised by a single parent,” said education secretary Bridget Phillipson.

“So I know first-hand the struggles facing parents trying to make ends meet and how important it is to tackle outdated stigmas with practical support that people can feel every day.”

Ms Phillipson added that free breakfast clubs are “revolutionising morning routines up and down the country” and “becoming an essential part of modern-day life for working families”.