Commenting on the Government’s announcement that a programme of free breakfast clubs in primary schools will begin next year, Dr Patrick Roach – General Secretary of NASUWT said:

“Pledging this money for the start of a roll-out of breakfast clubs in primary schools is welcome and will start to make a real difference for all children.

“It is undeniable that schools are working hard to pick up the pieces of rising levels of child poverty, caused by the worst cost of living crisis in half a century.

“We know that when children are not hungry they have improved attendance, behaviour,  and an increased capacity to learn.

“This announcement is an important step forward in tackling childhood hunger which is blighting education.

“We want to see a future where no child is hungry, where all children are ready to learn and where schools are supported fully to deliver the very best education for children.”