Free breakfasts on table for every primary pupil

Feb 6 2008 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

FREE breakfasts may soon be laid on for all pupils in North Tyneside primary schools.

Next week (February 12) a report to North Tyneside Council's Cabinet will outline the findings from a Northumbria University study of a pilot project in eight North Tyneside schools.

Four options piloted in the eight schools were a free mid-day meal for pupils of primary age; a free breakfast before school starts offering cereal, toast, milk, juice and fruit; a free second breakfast providing a mid morning meal of fruit, drinks and a bread product; a free healthy snack and drink mid morning and mid afternoon.

Interim findings confirm that pre-lesson breakfasts are the most beneficial in providing children with a nutritional boost for the day’s learning, and also improved punctuality and readiness to learn.

The Cabinet is being recommended to roll out free breakfasts for every primary pupil.

North Tyneside Mayor John Harrison said: "My pledge to deliver a healthy free school meal to every primary aged child has always been based on the need to encourage our children to establish healthy eating habits and ensure that they are fit to learn.

"Ensuring all our children have good health is an essential foundation if they are to achieve success.”

The study by the university assessed performance of children, their health and well-being, concentration levels, attendance and feedback from pupils, staff and parents.

"It is clear from international research and our own evaluation that breakfast is the most important meal of the day," says the report.

The additional cost of the scheme during 2008-2009 would be £750,000.

The report says: "Early results suggest that the breakfast option benefits children who otherwise would either struggle with punctuality or not have breakfast at home.

“It would also contribute to preparing them as best as possible for the learning day."