Tomaree High Breakfast Club serves up support for students

TOMAREE High School students are starting their mornings with more than a quick bite to eat, thanks to the school’s much-loved Breakfast Club, which now opens every school day from 7.30am until classes begin.

Since 2020, what began as a once-a-week program has grown into a daily morning hub for the school.

When Defence and Student Support Officer Alison Sargent took over the initiative, she secured donations that allowed the service to run five days a week.

“It gives students the opportunity to grab breakfast, so they are ready for the day. If they wish to do so,” Ms Sargent said.

The Breakfast Club is backed by Salamander Bay Woolworths, Bakers Delight and Foodbank donations, helping keep the tables stocked for students throughout the week.

Student Support Officer Cal Baillie told News Of The Area the program had become far more than breakfast.

“It also gives students a sense of community, where they can meet their friends before school starts,” Ms Bailey said.

On any given day, around 100 students stop by for breakfast, with different staff members hosting the club each morning.

The relaxed setting also gives Student Support Officers a chance to check in with students and helps set up a positive tone before the first bell.

The school goes through about 40 kilograms of fruit each week, with baskets placed around the campus to encourage students to pick up a healthy snack during the day.

Each week, the club uses about 15 to 20 loaves of bread, three large boxes of cereal and 80 dairy drinks.

The Breakfast Club space is furnished with tables and chairs indoors, while in summer students can make the most of the outdoor benches and enjoy some fresh air before school begins.

For Tomaree High, the Breakfast Club has become a simple but powerful way to show students they are valued and supported.

By Althea GUINSBERG