School lunchtime supervisor

Lunchtime supervisors work in primary, secondary and special schools, looking after children during the lunch break.

In this guide

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a school lunchtime supervisor, you would:

  • set out tables and chairs in the dining hall
  • help children with their food, if needed
  • encourage good behaviour and table manners
  • supervise children in the playground, or indoors if the weather is bad
  • make sure children are safe at all times
  • deal with minor injuries like bumps, cuts and grazes
  • organise games and activities during breaks

Working environment

You could work at a school.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a senior lunchtime supervisor or apply to work in the school kitchen.

You could also train to become a teaching assistant within the school.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • sensitivity and understanding
  • the ability to work well with others
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • active listening skills
  • customer service skills
  • a desire to help people
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

Most relevant

  • Physical Education - School lunchtime supervisors organise games and physical activities for children during break times. Understanding different sports, playground games, and how to keep children active and engaged is a key part of the role.
  • Food Preparation and Nutrition - School lunchtime supervisors help children with their food and oversee the dining hall. Understanding food hygiene, basic nutrition, and how to handle food safely is important for keeping children healthy at mealtimes.

Also relevant

  • Psychology - School lunchtime supervisors need to understand children's behaviour and how to encourage positive social interactions. Knowledge of child development helps when managing conflicts, supporting anxious children, and promoting good behaviour.
  • Sociology - School lunchtime supervisors work with children from diverse backgrounds and need to understand group dynamics. Awareness of how social factors like family circumstances and peer pressure affect children's behaviour helps them respond sensitively.
  • English Language - School lunchtime supervisors need strong verbal communication skills to give clear instructions, resolve disputes between children, and report any concerns to teachers or parents. Being able to communicate calmly and clearly is essential when managing large groups of children.

How to become

You can get into this job by applying directly.

You can apply directly to vacancies advertised by schools in your local area.

It could give you an advantage if you have experience working with children. A positive and caring approach is also important.

Career tips

A food hygiene certificate or first aid qualification may be helpful, though not essential.

Further information

You can get information about schools in your local area and find contact details.

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