The recently-introduced trial period of free breakfasts in Shetland’s secondary schools will be extended until the end of term and the hours increased to cover morning breaks.
Last month, secondary pupils were offered a breakfast of hot drink, a choice of cereals, toast and fruit in the mornings before the start of the school day. This trial, funded by the Scottish Government’s Islands Emergency Cost Crisis Fund, has now been extended to the end of March.
From next Monday (20th), free breakfasts will also be available in the morning break, so that pupils who arrive by bus, or who otherwise don’t have time for breakfast in the morning, can still benefit. Breakfasts are offered on a self-service basis to allow kitchen staff to continue other work, including lunch preparation.
In recent weeks, a total of up to 80 pupils each day have taken the free breakfast option at schools. This number is expected to increase when free breakfasts also become available at the morning break.