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Free breakfast clubs: guidance on food and funding (primary)

The DfE is in the process of rolling out the requirement for all primary schools to provide a free breakfast club. Understand what this means for your school, as well as the requirements and expectations around food standards.

Last reviewed on 20 August 2026See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 10049
Contents
  1. All primary schools will eventually join the rollout
  2. Schools on the programme must provide a free breakfast club
  3. You can charge for extended childcare
  4. Understand how the funding is calculated
  5. All schools: staffing arrangements must meet the needs of all pupils and their safety
  6. All schools: food served for breakfast must meet food standards
  7. Read case studies from other schools

Please note: this article covers the rollout and funding for the free breakfast clubs programme. Even if your school hasn't joined the programme yet, your breakfast club needs to follow certain food standards – see our sections for ‘all schools’ below.

All primary schools will eventually join the rollout

Under the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, all primary schools will be required to provide a free breakfast club.

This statutory requirement is being introduced in phases:

If your school is already part of the free breakfast club programme

Follow the DfE's guidance and grant conditions.

If your school hasn't joined the programme yet

Find guidance and resources to help you in the DfE’s 'breakfast club blueprint: access resources