Five more Telford schools to offer free breakfast clubs
A successful pilot scheme at a local primary school is being rolled out across the borough. Lawley Primary School was chosen last March to take part in the government’s free breakfast club pilot.
The scheme allows the school to offer a free meal and 30 minutes of free childcare for every pupil. Staff at the school say the club has created a calm and supportive start to the day. It has been especially helpful for children who find mornings difficult.
The school has reported better punctuality and improved wellbeing among pupils. Sarah Nicholas, Operational lead at Lawley Primary School, said: “The club continues to strengthen relationships, support wellbeing, and set pupils up for a positive day. We have approximately 120 children attending each morning, although porridge day proved extremely popular, with 145 children joining us.”
The government has now confirmed plans to extend the programme. Hundreds of schools across the country will join the scheme, including five more in Telford.
The new schools joining the programme are:
- Holmer Lake Primary School
- Woodlands Primary School
- William Reynolds Primary School and Nursery
- John Randall Primary School
- Windmill Primary School
Lawley Primary is now sharing its experience and guidance with these neighbouring schools. Sarah Nicholas added: “Strong communication with parents, careful monitoring of attendance, and a willingness to adapt based on children’s feedback have all helped keep attendance numbers high.”
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment and Skills, welcomed the news. She said: “I welcome the expansion of free breakfast clubs to another five schools in our Borough, which will provide vital support to hundreds of pupils and their families.”
