There are some incredible things happening in many schools, one idea that we find inspiring is campfire breakfasts. Once a week pupils at some secondary schools in Berkshire and Hampshire are invited in early for breakfast around the campfire, and get assistance with their homework.
Many schools already offer a breakfast option in the cafeteria for pupils, but there is something special about meeting at the outdoor classroom. It feels different, the outdoor environment gives pupils space to breathe and connect with each other, and nature as they start their day. Pupils like the informal tone and the practical skills they learn as they cook on the fire and create their own meal.
Breakfast Makes a Difference for Pupils
This idea kills two birds with one stone. Research shows that children who get a good breakfast are able to focus and absorb information better. And yet, not every child has access to a filling, nutritious breakfast. Cue school outdoor breakfast club. In addition, it’s not easy for all pupils to finish their homework at home and they may need extra help. Homework support at breakfast goes a long way for some pupils. Not all pupils look for homework help at breakfast club, but it is a strong offer for those who do.
Campfire Breakfasts in Practice at School
In the schools we’re referencing there is currently an outdoor learning lead or apprentice who is able to take point on organising these breakfast clubs. They set up the space, start the fire and prep the ingredients for pupils to make their breakfast. They then supervise the cooking and keep an eye on fire safety. Sometimes these teachers or apprentices are able to directly help with homework or other staff members are invited along, often on a rotation.
Perhaps this is an idea you would like to adopt, but don’t know where to start. Talk to your headteacher or outdoor learning lead (if you have one) about the first steps. It does not have to be expensive or very staff intensive, it will help for it to be consistent and meaningful however.
Campfire Breakfast Menu Ideas
Here are three fun and easy campfire breakfast ideas to get you started that pupils (and teachers) will love:
Bacon or Sausage Baps
- Ingredients: Baps, butter or margarine, sausages, bacon, meat alternative, ketchup.
- Instructions: Cook bacon and sausages on the grill over the fire, turn as needed and then serve with buttered baps and ketchup. This is a simple classic that will get pupils eating and ready for the day.
Breakfast Burritos
- Ingredients: Flour tortillas, scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon, grated cheese, Mexican seasoning, salt, pepper and optional veggies (like peppers or onions).
- Instructions: Scramble the eggs and cook the bacon/sausage in a pan over the fire. When you’re ready to eat, place a tortilla on a piece of foil, add a portion of scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, seasoning and veggies if desired. Roll up the tortilla, wrap it in the foil, and warm it over the campfire coals for about 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly before unwrapping and enjoying!
American Campfire Pancakes
- Ingredients: American pancake mix (pre-made or instant if possible), water (or milk), and a variety of toppings like fruit, syrup, or chocolate chips. You can use regular pancake mix instead and make campfire crepes instead if you’d prefer.
- Instructions: Prepare the pancake mix in a bowl. Add water (or milk) to the mix according to package directions. Pour the batter onto a greased campfire pan or skillet over the fire and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown. Serve with toppings of your choice.
These options are not only easy to make, but also give pupils a chance to be involved in cooking and enjoy some delicious campfire breakfasts. Things don’t need to be complex or have endless ingredients to be tasty and serve the needs of your pupils.
Beyond Breakfast
If breakfast isn’t your thing, could you run an after school snack homework club instead? Or does your school run holiday clubs for pupils where they might benefit from a meal like this? It would serve the same purpose and have similar outcomes for pupils: provide them with academic support and put some good food in their bellies. It’s food for thought (terrible pun intended)!
Let us know if you run something similar at your school or have recipe ideas. We’d love to share them on our socials.