The Prime Minister has called on 41 schools in Essex to apply for free breakfast clubs, set to launch in April 2024. Applications for this initiative will open on November 20, 2023, and the programme aims to support 500 schools nationwide. This effort follows the successful first phase, which included over 750 schools, with 15 already participating in Essex.
The initiative prioritizes schools with a high percentage of pupils receiving free school meals, ensuring that resources reach those in most need. Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, encouraged Essex schools to take advantage of this opportunity. He emphasized the positive impact of healthy breakfasts on children’s learning capabilities, stating, “All the evidence is that children who have had something healthy to eat in the morning are going to be better at learning, and therefore for their life chances it’s hugely important.”
Research indicates that breakfast clubs, such as those operated by the Magic Breakfast programme, can enhance children’s energy levels, making them more prepared to learn and better able to concentrate. Furthermore, these clubs may help parents save approximately £450 annually and provide an additional 95 hours of time, equivalent to more than two and a half working weeks.
Recent polling reveals that 38 percent of parents find it challenging to provide a healthy breakfast for their children, with time constraints and picky eating habits cited as significant obstacles. Mrs. Hafise Nazi, interim headteacher at Dr Walker’s Primary School near Ongar, highlighted the scheme’s benefits. “The scheme has become an invaluable start to the school day for many of our children; offering a healthy breakfast and a calm and welcoming space to settle in before learning begins,” she said.
Starmer reiterated the enthusiasm of schools that have embraced the programme early on. “The schools that are early adopters are all really enthusiastic about it. They know the difference it makes to children in their school and they know it makes the chances of the children in their schools so much greater,” he remarked.
With 15 schools already reaping the benefits in Essex, the Prime Minister’s appeal aims to motivate additional schools to participate. The call for applications represents a significant step towards improving educational outcomes and supporting families across the region.
