Before partnering with School Health UK, Shaun, Headteacher at Sitwell Junior School, faced several challenges during lunchtimes. "Our dinner hall was extremely noisy, and behaviour on the playground was a constant issue. We also had too many first aid incidents," Shaun recalls.
Following the intervention, the school has seen significant improvements. "Behaviour and engagement in playground activities have improved dramatically. First aid incidents are now rare, and the entire lunchtime experience is much more enjoyable for both staff and pupils," Shaun explains.
One key change has been the more effective supervision of both the hall and playground, with different areas being managed more efficiently. This has created a calmer, more structured environment that has had a positive impact on both pupils and staff.
"It was incredibly helpful to have an outside perspective on our lunchtime provision," says Shaun.
The detailed report provided by School Health UK gave the school valuable insights and recommendations that allowed them to implement effective changes.
While packed lunches have improved, Shaun notes that "Our next goal is to further increase the number of healthy packed lunches."
Would he recommend School Health UK? "Yes," he says confidently.
"The entire experience has been enlightening for both senior leaders and lunchtime staff. Our lunchtimes now run much more smoothly and are enjoyed by everyone involved."
Better Lunchtimes Project
Lunchtime improvement in schools
Playground behaviour management
Reducing first aid incidents at lunchtime
School dining hall noise reduction
Lunchtime supervision strategies
School Health UK success
Improving lunchtime experience
Healthy packed lunches
Lunchtime transformation in schools