At Great Bradfords Infant and Nursery School, lunchtimes were once one of the most challenging parts of the day. But since partnering with School Health UK and implementing the Better Lunchtimes Project, lunchtimes have become calmer, more structured, and far more enjoyable for both staff and pupils.
Lunchtime Challenges Before School Health UK
Before School Health UK’s support, our school faced several issues managing lunchtimes effectively. One key challenge was ensuring that all children, whether bringing packed lunches or having school dinners, could sit together and enjoy a structured, pleasant environment. Without clearly defined lunchtime schedules and unorganised outdoor play areas, congestion and disruptive behaviour often made it difficult for staff to maintain a calm, positive atmosphere.
Transforming Lunchtimes with the Better Lunchtimes Project
The Better Lunchtimes Project has been a game-changer for our school.
School Health UK helped us establish set timings for each lunch sitting, making transitions smoother and improving the flow of pupils in and out of the dining space. With this structure, both the dining area and outdoor play zones now run efficiently, helping reduce overcrowding and ease supervision for staff.
Furthermore, School Health UK’s recommendations on zoning outdoor play areas allowed us to assign specific activities to designated areas, which has significantly reduced lunchtime incidents. Now, pupils have their own spaces to enjoy, and our staff find it easier to oversee these zones effectively. These changes have transformed our lunchtime environment, creating a calmer and more organised experience for everyone.
Positive Impacts on Pupil Behaviour and Staff Confidence
Since implementing these changes, we’ve seen a noticeable reduction in disruptive behaviour and an improvement in pupil enjoyment during lunch. Staff members now feel more proactive and confident in their roles, thanks to School Health UK’s training, which has clarified their responsibilities and strengthened their lunchtime management skills. A structured environment has not only reduced incidents but has also made lunchtimes far more pleasant and less stressful for both pupils and staff.
A Shift Towards Healthier Eating
One of the unexpected yet positive outcomes has been a change in pupils' food choices. Since working with School Health UK, we’ve seen a reduction in unhealthy packed lunches and an increase in children opting for balanced, nutritious school meals. This shift aligns perfectly with our school’s mission to promote healthy eating habits among our pupils.
Reflecting on the Better Lunchtimes Project Experience
Working with School Health UK has provided our school with invaluable insights and practical solutions. This experience has allowed our staff to reflect on and improve our lunchtime structure, making it a better experience for everyone. For any school facing similar challenges, I highly recommend School Health UK’s Better Lunchtimes Project.
Their expertise and tailored guidance can make a real difference in creating healthier, more structured lunchtimes.
Partnering with School Health UK has transformed our lunchtime routine and created a more harmonious school environment as a whole. We’re excited to continue building on the positive changes they’ve helped us implement.
—Anita, Headteacher at Great Bradfords Infant and Nursery School
School Health UK
Better Lunchtimes Project
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