From The Point: Galen College Breakfast Club fills the belly, mind, and heart

The simplest observations can lead to incredible outcomes if enough people are committed to the cause.

Mornings in the library are often a great opportunity to get to know our students, but four years ago a short conversation with hungry students sparked an idea for library staff member, Cheryl Taylor, that has resulted in the formation of the highly successful Breakfast Club at Galen College, Wangaratta.

Now, every Wednesday lines of hungry students find their way to the front of the Soul Food Café and happily collect a hot toastie and a piece of fruit. The aim is to encourage better behaviour through better nutrition, ensuring all students have access to a substantial breakfast before commencing their day.

But there have several very welcome spin offs, foremost being positive interactions with students. 

Openly appreciative students say Breakfast Club makes Wednesday “the best day of the week” and “a special day”.

“That’s why we do this each week” said Ms Taylor of the supportive student comments. “This is what makes it all worthwhile.” 

The benefits don’t stop there.

Students who volunteer in the kitchen enjoy working as part of a team alongside teaching and support staff and gain the opportunity to obtain a commendation or even a reference for their resume. They can now also add their Breakfast Club volunteer work as evidence to support completion of outcomes in some subjects.

Volunteers also mention that they enjoy the experience and gain a lot from the interaction with staff and students.

The weekly initiative also enables House leaders to add a creative spin to their Feast Day breakfast and for students to grow their understanding of the spirit of service through their assistance at Breakfast Club. 

The volunteer-run kitchen runs like well-oiled machine, with six toastie makers working at full speed regularly creating up to 400 toasties before the first bell rings for homeroom. Students line up waiting patiently for their parcel of yumminess and their good humour is a testament to the success of the venture. 

Breakfast Club had humble beginnings and just a few passionate staff, two toasters and a lot of energy. Now the club is generously supported by local businesses Appin Street Bakery and La Bella Rocca, the school leadership, and the Parents and Friends Association. 

It’s become a service that offers much more than just a hot toastie.

·  Cheryl Taylor is Head of Learning Resources at Galen Catholic College.