All students at a primary school in York are set to get free school meals as part of a new scheme.
On 16 November the City of York council agreed to implement a pilot project that extends Universal Free School Meals to Key Stage 2 children.
The scheme will start by providing free lunches to pupils at Westfield Primary School throughout all of 2024.
Meals provided through the pilot will be alongside the Government’s current national offer for all children in reception and key stage 1 to receive free school lunch.
Lamara Taylor, Headteacher of Westfield Primary Community School, said: “We’re very excited to be part of the pilot and are looking forward to seeing the difference this will make for our children and the wider community.
“Good nutrition is an essential part of health and well-being. As a school, we are committed to ensuring all children can focus on learning, rather than being hungry.”
If additional funding is found through the York Community Fund, the pilot will also provide breakfast to children at Burton Green Primary School.
The project is part of the council’s aim to address those who are disadvantaged and struggling with the cost-of-living crisis across the city.
Councillor Bob Webb, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The evidence suggests Universal Free School Meals both support the human right to education and reduce health inequalities.
“In terms of affordability, this is about ensuring children have access to a healthy, good quality meal, regardless of their ability to pay.”
Anyone wishing to donate funding to support the Free School Meals pilot can do so via the York Community Fund.
Donations can be made via the Fund website.