ABSTRACT
Lunchtime is an important opportunity for students to relax and engage socially with one another; equally important is the relationship between teaching staff and the lunchtime duty supervisors. A recent change in title from 'dinner lady' to 'lunchtime supervisor' plays a part in developing a joint understanding and consistency of approach for all the adults working in the school. Lunchtime can be a time for children to consolidate strong, sometimes lifelong, friendships with one another or to discover a shared interest with their peers. It is a time when they may have the opportunity to confide in or share problems or interests with another adult. The lunchtime supervisor is often the person they can trust, feel safe with and respect. This relationship could be a consistent link outside of the more formal relationships within the classroom. Lunchtime supervisors should be both familiar and comfortable with the school rules.
