Deutsche Bank’s visit to a Magic Breakfast partner school

I was motivated to become an ambassador for Magic Breakfast because of the clear and immediate impact the charity has on young people’s ability to learn and succeed. The idea that something as simple as access to breakfast can improve focus, confidence and overall wellbeing really resonated with me.  Through my role, I’m particularly passionate about inclusion and social mobility, and Magic Breakfast directly supports both – helping ensure that every child has the same opportunity to start their day ready to learn.”

In February, I had the opportunity to visit Malmesbury School as part of Deutsche Bank’s CSR initiative and to kick-start our engagement with our fantastic new Charity Partner, Magic Breakfast ambassador.  It is an experience that will stay with me for a long time.

Rather than observing from a distance, I spent the morning sitting with students, building Lego, and talking about whatever came to mind. Conversations ranged from what they’d had for breakfast and how they felt about school, to whether I like unicorns and what pets I have at home. It was informal, unfiltered, and completely genuine – and that’s what made it so powerful.

What struck me immediately was the atmosphere. The children, across a range of ages, were engaged, alert and happy to be there. There was a real sense of calm and readiness, even though many of them had started their day earlier than usual. It was clear this wasn’t just about providing food – it was about giving every child the best possible start to their day.

Two things really stood out to me.

First, the critical role breakfast plays. It’s easy to underestimate how much of a difference it makes but seeing it in action made it obvious.  Breakfast is not a ‘nice to have’. It’s fundamental. It directly supports students’ ability to focus, participate and engage in their learning.

Second, and perhaps most strikingly, was the universality of the provision. Breakfast is available to every student, regardless of background or circumstance – and even for those who arrive late. That approach removes stigma entirely. It creates a level playing field, where every child starts their day in the same way, which is incredibly powerful from an inclusion and social mobility perspective.

It’s a simple concept, but the impact is profound.

The morning was not only eye-opening but genuinely uplifting, and it reinforced why organisations like Magic Breakfast play such an important role in supporting young people and schools across the UK. I’m proud to support Magic Breakfast as an ambassador and look forward to the next two years of seeing the difference they continue to make in helping young people learn and thrive.