Worcester 8th April 2025 — While the government’s early adopter free breakfast club pilot for primary children is set to roll out in April 2025 for one year across 750 of the UK’s 20,739 primary schools, Perry Wood Primary and Nursery School – Primary School of the Year 2025 in the Worcestershire Education Awards – has been ahead of the curve for over a decade.
Thanks to the leadership of Suzanne Beston, Worcester’s 2024 Head Teacher of the Year, the school has been providing free breakfasts to its most vulnerable students for the past 11 years in partnership with the local Co-Op.
From 7:30 am each morning, Perry Wood ensures that children qualifying for Pupil Premium/Free School Meals, those from vulnerable families on social care plans, and any child arriving without breakfast, are given a warm, nutritious meal. This initiative guarantees that every child starts their school day with food in their tummy and a smile on their face.
“Research has shown that breakfast consumption in children enhances learning, memory and attention. It also boosts academic performance while fostering better focus and engagement in the classroom,” said Suzanne Beston, Head Teacher of Perry Wood School.
Worcester City contains areas ranked within the top 10% of the most deprived nationally, with 40% of Perry Wood’s pupils living in the 30% most deprived areas of England. Additionally, 32% of the school’s pupils qualify for Pupil Premium, making the breakfast club an essential service for the community.
Thanks to the ongoing support of the local Co-Op, the school offers a delicious selection of toast, cereal, and fresh pastries to ensure pupils start their day well-nourished and ready to learn.
Members of the media are invited to visit Perry Wood School 8-11th April to see firsthand how this initiative is making a real difference. Interviews with Suzanne Beston, staff, and pupils, as well as photo opportunities, are available upon request.
