Before implementing the Better Lunchtimes Project, Boreham Primary School faced significant lunchtime challenges. Ian, the headteacher, recalls, "Our lunchtime service was too slow, with long waiting times. Some older children were finishing lunch after 1 pm, missing valuable learning time."
A divide existed between the externally-employed catering team and the in-house MDA team, resulting in poor communication and inefficiencies.
Following the intervention, the school introduced key changes. "We hired a new Catering Manager, reorganised year group sittings, and reduced waiting times," Ian explains.
Outdoor zones for different activities, including ball games, free play, and well-being, were introduced, helping to organise and improve the lunchtime environment.
The changes didn’t just streamline operations; they also improved communication and teamwork between staff. "The process was supportive and collaborative, allowing us to complete a full review of our lunchtime arrangements," Ian says.
With better communication between teams and an improved structure, both children and staff now enjoy lunchtimes more.
Ian is enthusiastic about the impact the Better Lunchtimes Project has had on Boreham Primary, and when asked if he’d recommend School Health UK, his answer is a resounding "Yes!"
Better Lunchtimes Project
Lunchtime service improvements
School lunch waiting times
Playground zoning for lunchtimes
Lunchtime staff collaboration
Improving school meal efficiency
School lunchtime success
Lunchtime provision review
School Health UK
Lunchtime transformation in schools
Communication in school catering teams
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