Headteachers have pledged their support for “properly funded breakfast club provision” after Labour called for it to be part of the national Covid recovery effort.

The support from the NAHT school leaders’ union has come in response to a plan for “catch-up breakfast clubs” from Labour to help pupils make up for time with friends and teachers that was lost during the pandemic.

Shadow education secretary Kate Green said: “Labour want children to be at the heart of our national recovery.

“Our plans for breakfast clubs would give all children extra time to socialise with friends, and targeted additional learning at the start of the day.”

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Ms Green repeated the call for catch-up breakfast clubs today after the idea was first announced by the party last month.

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And commenting on Labour’s plan today, NAHT general secretary Paul Whiteman said: “Many schools already run breakfast clubs for their pupils and often look to target that support for the pupils that need it most.

“Hunger is a real concern for school staff who regularly see children arriving in the morning without having eaten, and therefore not ready to learn.

“These concerns have only been exacerbated by the pandemic and the financial impact it has had on many families. We know that some children rely on school for their only certain meal of the day.

“A commitment to properly fund breakfast club provision and to expand it where appropriate would be welcome.

“A positive start to the day and a nutritious breakfast before school for those who need it could make a real difference. If properly funded and resourced, this entitlement is something school leaders would support.”

The Department for Education has been contacted for comment.