(Above) Councillor Peter Cannon joined staff and pupils for the regular breakfast club at Greenleys Junior School, which can continue offering free breakfast to pupils thanks to additional funding
Milton Keynes City Council is working with local schools to boost the number of free breakfast clubs being held in the city, helping more children start the day ready to learn while providing extra support for busy families.
Whilst many schools across the city already provide breakfast or before-school activities, work from the city council is encouraging schools in more deprived areas to open new clubs or extend existing ones, so more children can receive a free breakfast.
School breakfast clubs run for at least 30 minutes before the start of the school day. They offer a healthy breakfast for children while also providing parents with childcare during busy mornings. Open to all pupils from reception to Year 6, these clubs give children a positive start to the day and can help improve attendance and punctuality.
The overall programme is funded by the Department for Education (DfE), which schools apply to. The programme prioritises schools with higher levels of disadvantage, ensuring the support reaches the families who need it most.
“Increasing access to free breakfast clubs is an important way we can help families across Milton Keynes. These clubs make a real difference – ensuring children start the day with a healthy meal, ready to learn and to succeed. They also offer vital support for parents managing busy routines, easing pressure at the start of the day.”
Ten schools in Milton Keynes are already taking part, with a further seven set to join from September. The city council’s goal is that all local primary schools take part. Eligible schools are being invited directly by the DfE, with further updates expected as the programme expands.
For more information about support available to families in Milton Keynes, visit https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/benefits/cost-living-support