Mayor joins Bamford Academy breakfast club as part of government pilot

Friday, 4 July 2025 22:28

By David Murphy

The Mayor of Rochdale, Cllr Janet Emsley, and her consort, Mr Ken Emsley, paid a visit to Bamford Academy on Friday 27 June, joining pupils for a hearty start to the day as part of a government funded breakfast initiative.

The visit highlighted the school’s involvement in the UK Government's Free Breakfast Club pilot, aimed at ensuring all children have access to a nutritious meal before lessons begin. Bamford Academy is the only school in the borough of Rochdale taking part in the pilot scheme.

The mayor and consort sat down with pupils during the morning session, sampling the range of breakfast items and chatting with children about their daily activities. The school’s breakfast initiative, known as Bamford Boost!, is part of the government’s effort to support families and improve concentration and wellbeing among pupils.

Staff at Bamford Academy described the visit as a valuable opportunity to share the impact of the pilot scheme on pupil engagement and nutrition.

Children were reportedly delighted to meet the mayor, particularly intrigued by her ceremonial Chain of Office. School leaders extended their thanks to Cllr Emsley and Mr Emsley for taking the time to visit, praising the warmth and interest they showed in the school community.

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