Making breakfast work on Creating Value In Schools

Food

Social equity

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Top takeaways

Magic breakfast’s research report Root causes of child morning hunger highlights the complex and intertwined factors which create morning hunger for children. It examines the macro, meso and micro factors which contribute to the challenge. What can schools learn from these? Key takeaway: breakfast club provision isn’t enough. Logistical issues such as transport as well as more emotional barriers such as social stigma can all prevent take up where it’s most needed.

Offering provision is not enough

‘While 93% of primary schools offer provision due to legislative mandates, data suggests that only 15% of those attending are entitled to free school meals.’ (Root causes of child morning hunger report, page 12)

This quote from the report is in reference to Wales, which has had free breakfast provision since 2004.

The report goes on to say:

‘This “paradox” shows that simply having a breakfast club is not enough; without expert support to optimise delivery and tackle social barriers, the most disadvantaged children and young people, 85% of our target demographic in this instance, are still being left behind.’

Barriers to breakfast club access

Do pupils and families know about the club? Do they know how to access it, what’s available, and its purpose?
Can they get there in time? Transport can be a significant barrier, especially for pupils arriving on prearranged transport.
Social stigma: this is a particular issue at secondary schools, where breakfast provision is too often perceived as ‘charity’ or ‘not cool.’
Gender: in previous research, Magic Breakfast found 17% of girls aged 15+ reporting feeling embarrassed to eat at school.

Download the What’s for Breakfast? findings for an insight into the morning experience of children, young people and families.

What can schools do?

Talk to pupils, parents and families. What do they want and need from the breakfast club? What would help them to access it?
Explore different delivery options and models. Check out the DfE case study collection for ideas.
Learn from others. What are other leaders in your network doing? What’s working for them?

This DfE case study contains useful advice and top recommendations, including:

Consider the environment of your club. Is there a space you can use with calmer lighting? Music? What would make a good transition space from home to school?
What fun activities can you offer for after the children have eaten? For example board games, books, maths challenges.
What’s on the menu? They have a two-week rolling menu that exposes children to different kinds of foods to maintain interest.

More food for thought

For more from Need to Know on breakfast, food and funding, check out these resources:

Funding and staffing challenges

The DfE have already responded to initial feedback on the breakfast club pilot with an increase in funding to £1 per child plus £25 for staffing cost per day in mainstream schools.

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Making breakfast work

Top takeaways

Offering provision is not enough

Barriers to breakfast club access

What can schools do?

Funding and staffing challenges

Areas for reflection and action

Reading and resources