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Three Million Breakfasts Served To School Kids

06 December 2017

School Breakfast Clubs have served more than three million meals to children from families in need, ensuring they start their school day on a full stomach, since the program was put in place by the Andrews Labor Government.

Acting Premier James Merlino this morning joined students at Ascot Vale West Primary School, one of the 500 schools that serve up free and healthy Victorian-produced breakfasts.

School Breakfast Clubs have been providing 50,000 free meals each week at 500 of Victoria’s most disadvantaged schools since 2016.

Research has shown that since the program started, nine out of ten teachers have seen improved student concentration in the classroom, while seven out of ten teachers have noted improved attendance and more than eight out of ten teachers said they now had better relationships with their students.

Despite its success, the program would be cut by the Liberals if they win the next election. They have already promised a cost audit, which is code for cuts – cuts to breakfast clubs, cuts to the school uniform program and cuts to helping kids go to school camps and excursions.

The delivery of the $13.7 million breakfast club commitment is another example of how the Andrews Labor Government is tackling disadvantage and making things fair so that all children can reach their potential, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The Labor Government is building the Education State and ensuring that every child has access to a first-rate education.

A full list of School Breakfast Clubs can be found at: www.education.vic.gov.au/breakfastclubsExternal Link

Volunteering opportunities can be found at: www.foodbankvictoria.org.au/SBCvolunteersExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Acting Premier James Merlino

“Students with a full stomach do better at school – it’s that simple. That’s why School Breakfast Clubs are so important.”

“But make no mistake, the Liberals will cut school breakfast clubs right across the state if they are elected.”

Quote attributable to Member for Essendon Danny Pearson

“We know breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for setting up students to concentrate, learn and be at their best while at school.”

Quote attributable to Foodbank Victoria CEO Dave McNamara

“We look forward to continuing to support this program, providing more healthy breakfasts to help more kids start the day right.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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