The club was started for two days a week in mid-2010 by the welfare team of teachers. It soon grew to three and now breakfast is now provided every morning.

Support teacher learning assistant Fiona McLarty and school learning support officer Rachel Stokes have continued with the program throughout this year.

“A lot of the students did not have breakfast before they came to school and were very unsettled,” Ms McLarty said.

“There were some from families who couldn’t afford it, but there were also some who had to catch the bus by 7am and just didn’t have time.

“Others who were up early had something to eat before leaving, but were cold and hungry when they got here.

“[Having breakfast] has made a difference to their attitude in class and their behavior and some students have made enormous inroads with their study.”

But the breakfast club is not just about food, it is a place for students to come and talk if they have problems.

“It is a very informal atmosphere and the kids saw the teachers in a different light and could talk to them about things not normally discussed in class,” Ms Stokes said.

“The teachers found it nice too and the students opened up to them – even if it was just to tell them what they did on the weekend.”

Ms McLarty picks up milk and bread, which is supplied free of charge by Lovey’s Supa IGA and Barrington Bakery respectively, on her way to school.

“If it wasn’t for the ongoing commitment by both Simon [Beisler] and James [Lovegrove], I don’t think we could continue,” she said.

“A man from Bakers Delight delivers bread here weekly and teachers can take a loaf or two in return for condiments which are used for the breakfast club.”

The teachers set up around 8.15am ready for the 8.30 rush.

Fiona’s daughter Mel makes hot milo, and hot toast, with a selection of speads, is provided.

“It certainly makes a difference to the students’ lives,” Ms McLarty said.