Breakfast clubs programme 2021-2023

Details of school breakfast provision until July 2023.

We know that it is important for pupils to start the day with a nutritious breakfast.

The evidence shows that providing a healthy school breakfast at the start of the school day can contribute to improved readiness to learn, increased concentration, and improved wellbeing and behaviour.

Between March 2018 and July 2021, the National School Breakfast Programme (NSBP) for schools in disadvantaged areas has supported up to 2,450 schools to establish and develop breakfast clubs, and to sustain them in the longer term.

We are now investing up to £24 million in a new two year contract to continue our support for school breakfast provision until July 2023.

All participating schools will receive a 100% subsidy for Breakfast Club Provision until 31st March 2022. The subsidy will then be reduced to 75%, allowing schools to contribute 25% from other funding streams. All pupils in participating schools are to be offered breakfast supplies at no cost to them or their parents.

School eligibility

As per the arrangements in the previous NSBP, schools will be eligible for the new programme if they have 50% or more pupils in bands A-F of the income deprivation affecting children index (IDACI). This will include state-funded primary, secondary, special schools and pupil referral units. We will also be prioritising the Department of Education’s 12 opportunity areas.

Joining the scheme

The supplier for this contract, Family Action, will be sourcing and delivering breakfast food products to participating schools. Family Action have extensive experience in supporting schools and families and were partners in the delivery of the previous NSBP. They have begun recruiting schools, and taking orders, in preparation for the autumn term. Schools may express an interest in joining the scheme by contacting Family Action directly.

Types of food

All breakfast products will meet the school food standards and schools will be able to choose and order the food products and quantities they need for their pupils.