Log in
BEPS Brekky Club Fuels Friendship and Future Leaders
Each morning at Brunswick East Primary School (BEPS), the Breakfast Club leaders arrive early and get straight to work. They set up serving tables, lay out cereal, reusable cutlery and crockery, make toast and jaffles, and slice fresh fruit. It’s a smooth, cheerful routine that feels like it’s been part of the school forever – yet Breakfast Club has only been running for three terms.
Since launching in Term 4, 2024, the program has quickly become a much-loved part of daily life at BEPS. Starting at three days a week, it now runs every school day thanks to its growing popularity and impact. More than just a place to grab a bite, Breakfast Club is a space where students connect, support one another, and grow as leaders.
From the beginning, the vision was clear: Breakfast Club would be student-led. BEPS Principal Erin Wiley explains, “It’s part of our leadership program. Student involvement was a given. Right from the beginning, we signed up with the intention that our student leaders would run the show.”
Year 6 students were invited to self-nominate, and the school’s Education Support staff helped formalise the structure with a job description. Students then applied for the role of ‘Breakfast Club Leader’, delivering self-written speeches to a panel of teachers. Those selected take on real responsibility, training helpers, managing supplies, topping up fruit bowls, and ensuring leftovers are shared with classrooms to avoid waste. Leaders rotate on a two-week roster, giving many students the chance to step up and shine via the breakfast club helper initiative – also student led.
Breakfast Club Helpers are year 5/6’s who are approached and encouraged by leaders to add their names to the fortnightly roster. They are mentored and guided by breakfast club leader, to encourage helpers to put their hand up for future leadership roles.
This inclusive, hands-on approach has helped the BEPS students build skills that go far beyond the breakfast table. They learn how to work as a team, take initiative, and support their peers. “I’ve learnt how to encourage little kids and make them smile,” says Finn. And Audrey “learnt how to make jaffles and work a really weird dishwasher.”
Younger students look up to the leaders, especially the preps. “They see us as role models… when they’re in Grade 6 they might put their hand up to be a Breakfast Club leader,” beamed Audrey with pride “I like that we get to inspire them”. Finn’s also proud that he can “inspire other kids to do it.”
Beyond breakfast, the club plays a vital role in student wellbeing. It’s a gentle, welcoming start to the day, especially for new students and those feeling anxious. It’s also become a key part of the Prep Transition process, helping little ones settle in and feel part of the school community right from the get-go.
Brunswick East Primary School’s Breakfast Club is a remarkable example of what happens when students are trusted to lead. It’s a space filled with warmth, purpose, and plenty of toast – where friendships are formed, confidence grows, and future leaders are made.
And in true BEPS style, Finn summed it up with a grin: “We’re awesome sauce!” Yep, we think you’re awesome sauce too, Finn.
