Thousands of children are benefitting from a free, nutritious breakfast in school every day, thanks to an innovative and successful partnership between Wandsworth Council and Magic Breakfast.
Now in its third year, the programme supports 40 local schools and provides more than 5,000 children with a healthy meal each morning.
That’s 1,850 more breakfasts being served daily compared to last year, with 57% of children and young people in supported schools eating breakfast each morning.
Magic Breakfast offers a flexible mix of classroom breakfasts, breakfast clubs, and grab and go options, ensuring that all pupils, including those arriving late, have access to food to start their day.
This has not only improved nutrition, but it has also transformed children’s concentration, behaviour and attendance at school.
Families are also feeling the benefits. One parent from Franciscan Primary School said: “It has reduced my weekly shopping levels, as well as my financial stress, as I don’t have to worry about buying breakfast when funds are short.”
Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, said: “We know from speaking to teachers and parents that this innovative scheme has helped children arrive at school more settled, focused and ready to learn.
“For many families, knowing breakfast is available each day brings real peace of mind and ensures that no pupil, no matter their circumstances, goes hungry.
“I’m proud that Wandsworth is leading the way in tackling morning hunger and making sure every child has the opportunity to thrive.”
Over the Easter break and the May half-term, more than 2,500 holiday breakfast packs have been delivered to multiple families, and more are to follow during the summer holidays.
Wandsworth Council remains committed to ensuring every child has a healthy, positive start to their day, and has offered the Magic Breakfast partnership to every primary school in the borough.
For more information about Magic Breakfast and how to get involved, visit Magic Breakfast’s website or contact Wandsworth Council for guidance on the application process.
Image by Deborah Hudson from Pixabay
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