Opportunity for all starts with breakfast for all
On Wednesday 16 July we were proud to stand in Parliament Square alongside pupils, teachers, supporters and MPs, to deliver a clear message to the Government – no child should start the school day too hungry to learn.
The Breakfast Powers Opportunity campaign action marked one year since the King’s Speech promised free school breakfasts for all primary-aged pupils in England, a welcome and significant step. But for the pupils and educators who joined us, one thing is certain – this is not the finish line.
Joined by our partner schools, we brought the voices of lived experience directly to the heart of Government. Together, we delivered over 1,300 messages written by pupils to 10 Downing Street. These handwritten notes described in powerful, personal terms how hunger can affect learning and wellbeing, and why access to a healthy breakfast should be available to every child.
These messages didn’t just talk about food. Pupils shared how a simple morning meal, at school, with their peers, helps them feel ready to learn, brings energy into their day, and creates a calm, focussed start in the classroom. Many spoke about the confidence it gives them, the sense of belonging it fosters, and how it helps them start the school day feeling supported and ready to thrive.
But the pupils also voiced concerns about the policy not reaching every child that needs it. The current policy proposals risk excluding older students in special schools, and children attending some of the most disadvantaged secondary schools, young people who face the same barriers to learning due to morning hunger.
As the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill continues its journey through Parliament, now is the moment to strengthen the policy and ensure it delivers for every child, in every setting.
The Government’s plan is a step forward, but without urgent action to close the gaps, too many vulnerable children could still miss out. Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, starting with a nutritious breakfast. We’re not stopping until that’s a reality.
The action also marked a year since we launched Breakfast Powers Opportunity and was a powerful reminder of why this campaign matters. It brought together school communities, campaigners, and supporters in a shared call for action and has laid the groundwork for the next phase of our work, as we head into party conference season and continue to press for a breakfast policy that truly delivers for all.
Thank you to everyone who stood with us to get us this far. Together, we’ll keep going because no child should be too hungry to learn.
