Many schools struggle to manage behaviour at lunchtimes. This is an important part of the day which, if you include break-times, adds up to almost 20% of the academic day. This blog explores different ways in which Midday Supervisors can improve their engagement and help make lunchtimes much more sociable, inclusive and positive.
Read full article →
When we give Midday Supervisors an opportunity to have their say during our positive behavour training sessions they often tell us that lunchtimes are chaotic and children feel rushed so they throw most of their school lunch in the bin.
In secondary schools it seems to get even worse. Young people complain that the eating spaces are anti-social and the act of sharing food is a daily challenge to be negotiated rather than enjoyed.
This blog summarises our 8 ways to improve lunchtime provision, all of which have been adopted by some of the schools we work with so we know they are doable and effective.
Read full article →
Do some of your toilets smell despite regularly being cleaned. Do some of your corridors and classrooms smell musty? Do you have any mouldy walls that look unsightly and smell damp? If you do then read this blog about a product called AirSteril a cheap electronic device which breaks down unwanted bacteria and clears smelly compounds in the air 24/7. The product is certified by the Health Protection Agency. Tests showed a reduction of airborne microorganisms of up to 98.11% within five minutes of exposure and a reduction of surface contamination up to 59.47% in one hour. Using AirSteril - which is already being used in motorway service stations and major retailers like Tesco - will improve your school environment and help prevent infections from spreading.
Read full article →
Many schools are very good at supporting children’s mental health. The Department for Education report entitled ‘Mental health and behaviour in schools' highlights the effectiveness of a good PSHE curriculum, the success of school-based counselling and peer mentoring.
But at lunchtime and breaktimes children’s mental health suffers because the environment is often hostile and scary and in complete contrast to the classroom which is usually very nurturing and calm.
Read full article →
This fourth and final blog, in my 4-part series, focuses on how to create an inclusive and nurturing playground that meets the individual play needs of each child.
Read full article →
This third blog, in my 4-part series, focuses on how to create a restaurant style dining room that motivates children to eat together and eat better.
Read full article →