News

The full roll-out of the programme means children in every primary school can now receive a free school meal each day in all local authorities across Wales. Local authorities have also been supported and encouraged to source food locally, where possible.

First Minster Eluned Morgan said: “Serving up school dinners to all our primary pupils for free provides vital support. A year on from introducing the scheme to everyone, Wales is still the only UK nation to provide a free healthy meal for every primary learner. It makes sure that no child feels hungry during the school day. It helps their concentration and wellbeing and enabling them to achieve their full potential.”

Ther Welsh Government says that free school meals help reduce health inequalities, promote healthy eating and have the potential to boost social skills at mealtimes as well as helping to improve behaviour and attainment of learners.

Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle added: “It is a remarkable milestone. It is also a significant step in supporting Welsh families and tackling child poverty across our communities. We are now building on the good work that is already happening to make sure that every child in Wales has access to healthy food.

“We are consulting on new proposals which would help more children get their five-a-day, limit sugary desserts, and fried foods as part of new school menus. There is still time for people to have their say on the consultation until the end of July.”