The breakfast club program, originally started to assist pupils from struggling families who were missing out at home, has seen the morning events become a social occasion for many students.

Stawell Primary School runs its breakfast club on Tuesday and Thursday each week, but could expand the program following added support provided by charity Foodbank Victoria.

Fruit, muesli and baked beans have been added to the school’s menu thanks to state government-funded support.

Stawell primary principal Robyn Jones said the school would also consider adding a third day to its breakfast club.

“It is wonderful to have so much extra food supplies that we can offer our families,” she said.

“It has certainly enhanced our breakfast club.

“The Foodbank contribution might allow us to extend to three days a week, but we would need more volunteers to do that.”

Mrs Jones said breakfast was the most important meal of the day for her pupils.

“The Foodbank offers more cereal, fruit, muesli, baked beans, which are things we would not normally have had,” she said.

“They have been wonderful in that way and we can offer all our students more for breakfast.”

Ararat North Primary School has a paid staff member who runs the school’s breakfast program five days a week.

Principal Dani White said pupils enjoyed the social aspect, and it was more than those in need who attended.

“Most of the students who attend actually come because it is a good chance to catch up with friends,” she said.

“Their parents have said they are happy to give them breakfast, but the kids love spending time with their friends.”

Along with community volunteers, Stawell primary’s grade 6 students also help at the breakfast.

Mrs Jones said the school would welcome any volunteers who wanted to help out.