Across Victoria, more than 1,200 government schools take part in the free School Breakfast Club program, helping families with the rising cost of living.
Nagambie Primary School’s student-led Breakfast Club runs 5 days a week from 8 - 8:45am.
Principal Rob French says the program is a ‘top-up’ breakfast for some students - and the first meal of the day for others.
He says the program means students arrive at school early and eat breakfast in a safe and supervised environment, free of charge.
The school also provides morning tea and lunch for students who need it and take-home packs for families.
'Children can’t focus in class if they are hungry' Rob says. 'Breakfast Club ensures all students start the day ready to learn and engage with their peers.'
The breakfast club is run by Coordinator Helen, with great support from their Office Manager Dan, Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Coordinator Shannelle, Rob and a team of Grade 5 and 6 student assistants.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Helen’s Helpers’, the students take great pride in their roles. 'They get to school at 8am each day, ready to help. They help prepare the food, clean up and coordinate the students who attend,' he says. 'They help make Breakfast Club a fun and happy place to be.'
'Their parents and grandparents often comment on the positive impact that participating in Breakfast Club has had on the children’s wellbeing and personal growth.'
Rob says Breakfast Club is seen as a core part of the school’s wellbeing culture, not an optional add-on.
'We all recognise that Breakfast Club is an important part of the mental health and wellbeing wrap-around culture of our school,' he says.
It’s a space where students are welcomed into a calm, friendly and happy environment that helps them start the day feeling settled and connected.
The emphasis is as much on belonging and care as it is on nutrition, setting a positive tone for learning before the first bell rings.
Victorian public schools have programs to help families with the cost of living and education
Ask your school about programs like School Breakfast Clubs, Glasses for Kids and Smile Squad dental checks as well as more affordable uniforms. Help is available.
To learn about these programs, go to Real Support Right Now.
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