FREE BREAKFAST CLUBS TO LAUNCH IN 750 SCHOOLS THIS WEEK – The initiative is aimed at providing parents with an extra 30 minutes of free childcare each school day
The rollout of free breakfast clubs in schools begins this week, with the first 750 primary schools starting the program today.
The initiative is aimed at providing parents with an extra 30 minutes of free childcare each school day, adding up to as much as 95 hours per year.
Set to run through July, the pilot program kicks off with the new school term and is expected to pave the way for a nationwide expansion.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Free breakfast clubs are a key part of our Plan for Change, helping to ease the pressure on working families and make childcare more affordable.”
As children return from the Easter break, participating schools across England will begin offering the breakfast sessions. Under the trial, schools will be reimbursed by the government based on actual attendance.
Initially supported with £7 million in funding, the scheme is set to grow, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirming over £30 million will be allocated for the program in the 2025-26 budget.
Labour has pledged a total investment of £315 million in breakfast clubs by 2028-29.
On average, a school with 50% participation is expected to receive approximately £23,000 per year. All schools involved will also get £500 to support setup costs and a minimum lump sum of £1,000 each term.
