As children return for the new school year, the Welsh Government
has confirmed that all pupils in maintained primary schools
across Wales are now able to receive a free school meal from this
week.
The roll-out of the programme has now been completed across
Wales, meaning every child up to and including Year 6 is now able
to receive a free school meal every school day.
The Welsh Government set out the commitment in 2021 as part of
its efforts to tackle child poverty. Since its launch, nearly 30
million meals have been served and this new rollout entitles
176,000 more learners to a free school meal.
Free school meals also help reduce health inequalities, promote
healthy eating, and have the potential to boost social skills at
mealtimes, help improve behaviour, and improve attainment of
learners. Local authorities have also been supported and
encouraged to source food locally, where possible.
Work is underway to review Regulations which set out the types of
food and drink that may be provided during the school day ,
including defining the nutrient content of school lunches.
First Minster, said: “A healthy school meal
is vital in ensuring that no child feels hungry during the school
day, helping their concentration and wellbeing and enabling them
to achieve their full potential. Free school meals are also
providing welcome support to families and helping tackle child
poverty.
This is a momentous occasion for children here in Wales. I'm
incredibly proud that Wales has become the first UK nation to
offer free school meals to all primary pupils.”
Cabinet Secretary for Education, said: “We are ensuring that no
primary school child will go hungry at school, and I am thankful
for our local authorities and schools for helping to make this a
reality.
“I have seen the difference that this offer has already made for
children and families firsthand. This is an important step we
have taken to tackle child poverty, and I will continue to work
to make certain that we have the best school food offer in the
UK.”
