More children in Southwark are now able to enjoy free healthy breakfasts at school nurseries thanks to a funding increase from the local council. Last year, the Southwark council provided an additional £175,000 to support school nursery classes and maintained nurseries in offering nutritious breakfast options.
Starting from the spring term of 2024 until the summer term of 2025, schools receive £2.65 per week for each child eligible for 30 hours of funding, which is equivalent to five breakfasts per week. For children eligible for 15 hours of funding, schools receive £1.59 per week, providing them with three breakfasts per week.
Pippa Baker, the Head of School and SENCo at Nell Gwynn Nursery School in Peckham, expressed her excitement about the funding increase. She mentioned that the additional funds have allowed them to expand the variety of healthy food choices available to the children. The school now offers a wider range of fruits, wholegrain breads, as well as sensory-seeking options for children with neurodiversity, such as crackers and carrots. The children are now able to enjoy previously expensive items like blueberries and strawberries.
This funding boost is part of the council’s ongoing free school meal plan that was initiated in 2019. Each school has the autonomy to decide how the funding is utilized, whether for lunches, breakfasts, or healthy snacks throughout the day, based on the specific needs of the children, attendance patterns, and available facilities.
Ms. Baker highlighted the social aspect of children having breakfast together, emphasizing that it enhances their overall experience. She pointed out that a free healthy breakfast not only helps children settle better but also improves their behavior and concentration throughout the school day. This initiative also provides relief for families facing financial challenges.
Recently, Cllrs Evelyn Akoto and Jasmine Ali visited Nell Gwynn Nursery School to join the children for breakfast. Cllr Ali, the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Education & Refugees, emphasized the financial relief this initiative brings to parents amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. She mentioned Southwark’s long-standing commitment to providing free healthy school meals, which has been in place for over a decade.
The importance of ensuring children have access to nutritious meals in educational settings cannot be overstated. It not only contributes to their physical well-being but also plays a significant role in their academic performance and overall development. The positive impact of such initiatives extends beyond the individual child to families and the community as a whole. By investing in the health and well-being of our children, we are laying a strong foundation for a brighter future.
