At Smitham Primary, lunchtime used to be one of the more challenging parts of the day, with numerous issues affecting both students and staff.
In a recent consultation, Sarah, Headteacher at Smitham Primary School, shared insights into how the Better Lunchtimes Project by School Health UK has made a positive impact. Here’s a detailed look at her feedback, highlighting the significant changes observed at Smitham Primary since working with School Health UK.
Key Issues Before School Health UK’s Visit
According to Sarah, one of the main issues the school faced was ensuring all children could eat together, regardless of whether they had school dinners or packed lunches. “Before School Health UK visited, there was a real challenge with getting all children to eat at the same time, creating a sense of community and equality during lunchtime," Sarah noted. This lack of synchronicity often led to a fragmented mealtime experience, where some children finished quickly, while others barely had time to eat.
Major Changes Since School Health UK's Intervention
Since implementing recommendations from School Health UK, Smitham Primary has seen substantial improvements. Sarah shared that adjusting the timings of lunch sessions and zoning the outdoor space have been game-changers. “The revised timings allow for a smoother transition, making lunchtimes feel more structured and manageable,” she explained. The zoning of outdoor spaces has also helped create a calmer environment where children have designated areas for various activities, which in turn has contributed to better overall organisation.
Healthier Choices and Increased School Meal Uptake
Another positive outcome has been a reduction in unhealthy packed lunches. When asked if there had been a visible change in the healthiness of packed lunches since School Health UK's involvement, Sarah confirmed, “Yes.” Additionally, more students are opting for school meals over packed lunches. "We've noticed an increase in school meal uptake, which not only helps ensure balanced nutrition but also fosters a shared mealtime experience,” she added.
Staff Engagement and Morale
The impact on staff has been equally significant. When asked if staff have become more proactive and happier in their roles, Sarah responded with an enthusiastic “Yes.” She highlighted that School Health UK’s program allowed staff to reflect on and adjust their approach to lunchtime management. “The experience provided an opportunity for staff to reflect on the current provision and find ways to make lunchtimes more enjoyable and efficient,” Sarah commented.
Improvements in Behaviour and Lunchtime Enjoyment
The project’s impact on student behaviour has been noticeable, with a marked improvement around lunchtimes. Sarah confirmed that “behaviour has improved” and that students are enjoying their lunchtime more than before. “There’s a real difference in how students interact during lunch—it’s calmer, and they genuinely seem to enjoy the structure that’s now in place,” she explained. With fewer incidents and a more positive atmosphere, lunchtimes have become a highlight of the day rather than a stress point.
Recommendation for School Health UK
When asked if she would recommend School Health UK to other schools, Sarah’s response was a resounding “Yes.” She believes that the tailored approach provided by School Health UK, combined with practical strategies for immediate implementation, can benefit schools facing similar lunchtime challenges.
Final Thoughts from Smitham Primary
Reflecting on the transformation at Smitham Primary, Sarah expressed appreciation for the expertise and support offered by School Health UK. “The consultation provided valuable insights and actionable steps that we could start applying right away. From healthier meal choices to a more enjoyable lunchtime atmosphere, it’s been a worthwhile change for both our students and staff,” she said.
The experience at Smitham Primary is a testament to the effectiveness of School Health UK's Better Lunchtimes Project. Through strategic changes, such as session timing adjustments, outdoor zoning, and a focus on staff engagement, the school has transformed its approach to lunchtime, making it healthier, calmer, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Interested in learning more about how School Health UK can help transform lunchtimes at your school? Visit our website for further information or reach out to see how we can make lunchtimes a better experience for your students and staff.
