The Breakfast Club: The School of Biological Sciences

Staff member Abigail Cabrelli applied for this funding to help support students in the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and to increase student contact with school support staff as well as productivity in the School of Biological Sciences.

The School of Biological Sciences Breakfast club, supported by student volunteers and student advisers, successfully ran from June 2024 to January 2025 serving more than a whooping 750 breakfasts to undergraduate and postgraduate taught students. The club saw a weekly attendance ranging from 8-15 students during the summer, to 40-60 students during the semester, showing how an idea could positively impact the mornings of students who may not have been eating breakfast.

One student shared that the club provided a meal that they otherwise wouldn’t have had, while others highlighted how it motivated them to come to campus in the morning, boosting their productivity. 

Through research, Abigail found that many students were often reluctant to seek help due to fear of stigmatisation, lack of time or believing that support is not needed. She founded this club with hopes of creating a relaxed setting for students to encourage discussing their concerns and also to accept offers of support from university staff.

These hopes were met as Abigail highlights observing students using this time to check in with their student advisers and academic staff, and further observed that the informal nature of the Breakfast club helped students meet other students and socialise. 

Perhaps the biggest testament to the club’s success has been the School’s commitment to providing additional funding so that it can continue. In recognition of its success, Abigail received a staff award in relation to Student Experience at the School of Biological sciences as well as the College of Science and Engineering Staff Award for Inclusion. 

Abigail reflects the impact receiving a £4,340 Student Experience Grant has had in making a difference to Biological Sciences students lives.

"I am deeply grateful to the generous donors of the Edinburgh Fund whose support made Breakfast Club possible. Their contributions have enabled us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students in the School of Biological Sciences - not only by providing a nutritious meal but also by fostering a strong sense of community and belonging within the School."