Narrabundah Early Childhood School part of Meals in Schools pilot

The ACT Government has launched a pilot designed to provide access to nutritious food for children attending certain schools in a bid to support children and avoid them having to ‘learn on an empty stomach.’

 

Narrabundah Early Childhood School, which provides education and care for children from preschool until Year 2, is one of the schools involved in the pilot, which will give children attending the five sites access to breakfast and lunch three days per week throughout the school year until the conclusion of the pilot in July 2025.

Richardson Primary School, Gilmore Primary School, Gold Creek Primary School (Senior Campus) and Melba Copland Secondary School (College Campus) are the other schools in the trial.

 

“Research tells us that students learn better and are happier at school when their bellies are full. That’s why we committed to free breakfasts and lunches in five public schools,” ACT Minister for Education Yvette Berry said.

 

“A free feed will also take the pressure off families who are doing it tough. It will reduce grocery bills and make it easier for busy parents to get everyone out the door in the mornings.”

The Meals in Schools pilot is one of many wellbeing and cost of living supports available to students and their families in ACT public schools, including the Future of Education Equity Fund, free Chromebooks for secondary students, free access to internet at home for families who need it and free period products in schools. 

 

Funding for the program was provided in the 2024-25 Budget, with the ACT Government committing nearly $4 million towards the pilot.

 

More information about Meals in Schools, and other initiatives to support children, is available on the Education Directorate website.