OnTheWight always welcomes a Letter to the Editor to share with our readers – unsurprisingly they don’t always reflect the views of this publication. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch and of course, your considered comments are welcome below.
This from Peter Shreeve, Assistant District Secretary, Isle of Wight National Education Union. Ed
The announcement of the expansion of free school meals eligibility will no doubt ensure far fewer empty bellies in classrooms. But it doesn’t go far enough.
In a DfE press release last week raising the new entitlement to free school meals for all children in households on Universal Credit, the Prime Minister states: ‘This expansion is a truly historic moment.’
Universal free school meals for all primary pupils
However, many children in families who just miss out on being eligible for Universal Credit will also miss out on a hot, healthy school meal.
Yet, in both Wales and London they already have universal free school meals for all primary pupils.
Playing catch up is hardly historic. Even more so, when it’s not going to happen until September 2026.
Positive impact of children eating and learning together
Schools and families know the positive impact of children eating and learning together – how it breaks down stigma and inequality, and ensures greater community cohesion.
Perhaps politicians need to experience working every day on an empty belly from now until September 2026. Looking at their parliamentary behaviour, perhaps many already do?
