DERBYSHIRE: Hundreds of pupils to get breakfast at school

Hundreds of pupils will be able to get breakfast at their school under a new pilot scheme.

Youngsters at 25 Derbyshire primary and junior schools will benefit from the project.

Derbyshire County Council is funding food at the clubs, which will cost between £180,000 to £200,000.

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The pilot will run for four years and the schools will provide staff and resources for the day-to-day running of the clubs.

The schools have been chosen because they have the greatest number of children who are entitled to free school meals.

Cllr Kevin Gillott, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

“Research has shown that children who’ve had a nutritious breakfast have better concentration, more energy and behave better in class.

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“We want all Derbyshire children to achieve their potential in school and this pilot will help us discover whether this is a cost-effective way to raise standards and invest in the future of our young people.”

Conservative Cllr Barry Lewis, shadow cabinet member for children and young people, said the project will help improve behaviour in school.

But he added: “It is ultimately the responsibility of parents to ensure their children are fed and get to school – not the state.

“Perhaps some of the money would be better spent to encourage and educate parents?”

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