UK Government opens applications for breakfast clubs in England, after over 100 million free breakfasts provided in schools in Wales

Today [Wed 27 November] schools in England can apply to hold breakfast clubs from April 2025, following the success of the roll-out by the Welsh Labour Government here in Wales.

In Wales, free breakfasts have been provided in primary schools since 2004 and have been protected in legislation since 2013. It is estimated that over 100 million free breakfasts have been provided across Wales in the last decade alone, and the Welsh Labour Government is working with councils to increase the take-up of free breakfast provision.

The most recent data shows the number of primary school aged children receiving a free breakfast in Wales has increased by almost 12,000 over the last two years (Pupil-level annual school census, 2023 and 2024).

This is in addition to the roll-out of universal free school meals for primary school children which was first announced in 2021 and has seen over 30 million additional meals served since.

The Welsh Labour Government is delivering for the people of Wales even in the face of challenging financial circumstances, and First Minister Eluned Morgan is laser-focused on the priorities of the people of Wales.

After fourteen years of Conservative governments in Westminster who hindered opportunities here in Wales, we finally have two Labour governments continuing to invest in policies that tear down the barriers that hold people back and ensure that everyone can get on in life, regardless of their background.

First Minister, Eluned Morgan said:

“After two decades of free school breakfasts in Wales, it is fantastic to see the programme being offered to primary schools in England.

“A healthy school meal is vital in ensuring that no child feels hungry during the school day, helping their concentration and wellbeing and enabling them to achieve their full potential.”

 

Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, said:

“Only under a Labour government will barriers to opportunity be broken down.

“Providing free, nutritious meals at school shows this Welsh Labour Government delivering on our priority to provide opportunity for every family.”


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