Last Tuesday (April 22, 750 schools across England began offering the scheme, which will run until July.
The programme provides primary school children with a free, healthy meal at the start of the school day, as well as early morning childcare.
Parents can save up to £450 annually if their child attends daily.
In London, 78 schools are participating, including five in the London Borough of Sutton:
- Cheam Park Farm Primary Academy
- Cheam Fields Primary Academy
- Brookfield Primary Academy
- Cheam Common Infants’ Academy
- Cheam Common Junior Academy
Although the initiative is currently available in 750 schools, focusing on disadvantaged communities and benefiting around 180,000 pupils, it will eventually expand to all state-funded primary schools across the country.
The phased approach aims to ensure that every child has access to a nutritious meal before school, regardless of their background.
Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, said: “Free breakfast clubs are a central part of our Plan for Change.
“At a time when there is so much pressure on families, they provide real help with the cost of living and ensure children start the day with a nutritious meal.
“On top of the hectic school run, parents should not have to worry about how to balance work and getting their children fed and ready for school.
“These clubs will break down barriers and help children settle in, focus, and get the most out of their learning.
“We are delivering on our promises and giving every child the best start in life while making sure families get the support they need, wherever they live.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the initiative “a truly game-changing moment for families in this country”.
He added: “They mean parents will no longer be hamstrung by rigid school hours and have the breathing space they need to beat the morning rush, attend work meetings and doctors’ appointments, or run errands.
“And crucially, it means better life chances for children.”
