7:30am every morning at Tokoroa High, South Waikato, an incredible team of students start their day. Showing up for their school community, by opening up their breakfast club and creating a welcoming vibe.

The awesome initiative of these impressive rangatahi not only tackles the need for a healthy breakfast but also builds a strong sense of community within their school.

Broader Positive Impact

The breakfast club at Tokoroa High has had a ripple effect, positively impacting not just the students who attend, but the entire school community. It's strengthened bonds, improved academic performance, and shown the incredible power of student-led initiatives to create real change.

" The positive impact I have observed is that the students running the club foster a strong culture of care, respect, and belonging within our school and wider community—demonstrating the values of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and kotahitanga. Everyone feels welcome to grab a bite to eat and something to drink, free from judgment. The students can have a great start of the day with a healthy breakfast and helps them to stay focused in class until their next meal at 11.30. The student volunteers do an outstanding job of organising and running the club with minimal supervision, which in turn helps build a solid foundation for their leadership development."[Sanjeena Chandra: Teacher-in-charge]

This inspiring initiative at Tokoroa High proves that when students come together for a common cause, they can achieve amazing things. Their dedication and hard work are a shining example for other schools and communities looking to nurture young minds and foster a supportive environment.

Student Contributions

What inspired you to join the breakfast club?
Ryder (16): I wanted to make sure every student starts their day with more than just food — I wanted them to feel connection, kindness, and a sense of belonging. A good breakfast can fuel your brain, but feeling cared for fuels your heart.

Donovan (16): I joined because I saw how even something small, like a hot milo or a bowl of Weet-Bix, could completely turn someone’s morning around. On a cold, rough day, that warmth can change a person’s mood and help them face the rest of the day.

Can you share a memorable moment from your time with the breakfast club?
Ryder: One morning a student came in looking really down. We gave them some breakfast, had a quick chat, and by the end they were laughing with the rest of the group. It reminded me why we show up every day.

Donovan: I’ll never forget the day a group of juniors came in, shy at first, but by the end they were helping us serve milo and toast. They walked out smiling, and the next day they brought their friends. That’s how the community keeps growing.

What changes have you noticed at school since the club started?
Ryder: There’s a stronger sense of whanaungatanga (connection) at school now. People know there’s a space where they can come, be themselves, and start the day feeling supported. This program also provides opportunities for students to grow their leadership skills, while giving back to the community. I have grown so much in my interpersonal skills, leadership and overall personality. I connect well with students, am more approachable and have more empathy. We have now the student volunteer army who are on board and helping.

Donovan: Students are coming to class more focused and in a better mood. Even teachers have noticed the difference — it’s like breakfast is setting the tone for the whole school day.

Do you have any tips for students at other schools who want to start their own breakfast club?
Ryder: Stay consistent. Show up every day, even if it’s just with a smile and Weet-Bix. People notice when you’re there for them, and over time, that builds trust and community.

Donovan: Treat everyone with the same respect and warmth. When students feel valued, they pass that on to others.

What does the future look like for Tokoroa High Breakfast Club – any plans you want to share?
Ryder: We want to keep growing and maybe offer more food options — like fresh fruit or pancakes on Fridays. The goal is to keep it welcoming and fun, while making sure no one starts their day hungry.

Donovan: We’d love to get more students involved in running it, so it keeps going for years. The more leaders we have, the stronger the club will be.