Schools in North Kirklees seeing ‘inspiring benefit’ of breakfast club funding
The MP for Spen Valley has visited three schools in the constituency to see the positive impact breakfast clubs are having on children and families.
During visits to Fieldhead Primary Academy, High Bank Junior, Infant and Nursery School, and Co-op Academy Smithies Moor, Kim Leadbeater met with pupils, teachers and school leaders to learn more about the positive impact the early morning clubs are having on attendance, wellbeing and educational attainment.
The visits come as the government delivers its commitment to expand free breakfast club provision, ensuring more children have access to a nutritious meal and a positive start to the school day.
Speaking after the visits, Kim said: “Every child deserves the opportunity to start the school day ready to learn, regardless of their background or circumstances. It was wonderful to see the fantastic work taking place in our local schools and to hear directly from pupils, staff and families about the difference breakfast clubs are making.
“These clubs do so much more than provide a healthy meal. They give children a chance to socialise with friends, build confidence, settle into the school day and arrive in the classroom ready to learn. They also provide valuable support for parents and carers who are balancing work and family life. The schools have also seen a marked improvement in attendance.
“The government’s commitment to rolling out free breakfast clubs is a significant investment in children and families, and it was inspiring to see the benefits already being felt in schools across our community.”
Danika O’Connor, of Co-op Academies, said: “The DfE funding has enabled us to provide a wider range of healthy food and welcome even more children into our breakfast club.
“It’s about far more than breakfast; it gives children valuable time to play, build friendships and develop a real sense of belonging, helping them start each day feeling happy, connected and ready to learn.”