Better Play at Lunchtimes is a fun and active course which focuses specifically on the unique issues
facing lunch time supervisors. It combines basic play theory with tried and tested techniques for extending
play in schools. It introduces positive intervention that genuinely works and a host of new and traditional games and activities to try out in the playground.

The course takes place over 4 sessions of between 2½  and 3 hours. These can be 4 separate sessions or
compressed into 2 days.

In order to pass the course learners have to attend the sessions and complete a small number of observation
and practical tasks. Writing is kept to an absolute minimum and the tasks will be around observing children
at play and trying out some of the techniques and activities introduced by the course.

A recent study in Lincolnshire has shown that a majority of schools benefit in the following ways.

• Behaviour during lunchtime improves.
• Behaviour in session after lunch improves.
• Children’s general attainment improves.
• Accidents and incidents decrease.
• Physical activity levels dramatically increase even in hard to reach children such as those with obesity or dyspraxia.
• Lunchtime supervisors express more satisfaction with their roles.
• Children experience a wider range of play types and corresponding educational benefits.
• Lunchtime supervisors are better able to use on site equipment such as climbing frames without restricting children’s play.

   

“I thought I wouldn’t learn anything on this course after being at the school for 35 years but I have been
really enlightened….”
Lunch time supervisor.

“I would recommend this training to any school that is serious about improving play and physical activity
opportunities for their children.”
Head teacher