Pupils at Fishergate Primary School are now able to get a free breakfast at school each morning as part of the citywide campaign to deliver free meals to primary school pupils. The pilots have been made possible thanks to funding from City of York Council and donations to the York Community Fund’s York Hungry Minds Appeal.
The current pilots include the provision of a free breakfast or a free lunch (for children in years 3 to 6), so the benefits of each option can be evaluated.
Westfield Community Primary School offers free lunches for children in years 3-6. Children in Reception, year 1 and year 2 are eligible for free school lunches under the Government’s national free school meals scheme. Pupils at Burton Green Primary School get free breakfasts.
Research has shown pupils that took part in the schemes showed improved attendance and punctuality compared to their peers who are not taking part. Schools saw evidence of improved behaviour as a result of children feeling less hungry.
Councillor Bob Webb, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make free school breakfasts available to pupils at another primary school in the city as part of York Hungry Minds.
“Local and national evidence shows the positive impact universal free school meals have on pupils’ attendance and behaviour. We hope that our work and peoples’ generous donations will help to support our long term aim to ensure all children in the city have a great start to their health and wellbeing, as well as supporting all families through the cost of living crisis.”