Inverness secondary school pupils can build on free breakfast

An Inverness secondary school is phasing the introduction of a new free breakfast for pupils thanks to a donation from housebuilder Robertson Homes.

This provision is currently open to all 140 S1 pupils at Charleston Academy, but it is hoped that it can be rolled out to the entire school later this year if the pilot is successful and further funding is secured.

Teacher and breakfast co-ordinator Derek Sawyer, who has developed the initiative along with his senior pupils, said: “There are proven links between nutrition and attainment, and we want to ensure that every pupil starts the day well-nourished and in the best position to be able to concentrate on lessons.

“The school day starts at 8.50am with the first break not until 11.20am, so if pupils come to school without breakfast there can be a real drop in focus and at times deterioration in behaviour

“We have a diverse catchment area, from both the city to rural areas and pupils can miss breakfast for a variety of reasons. This provision ensures that need no longer be the case.”

Robertson Homes’ commercial manager north, Neil MacKinlay, said: “Starting the day well-nourished is so important on many levels and we are pleased so many of the first-year pupils are taking advantage of this great idea.”

Pupils can choose from wholemeal toast, yoghurt, fresh fruit and cereal bars and can take two different items.

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