School lunchtime supervisor

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


Working Hours

10–18

hours per week

Career Area

School midday and crossing patrol occupations

View related courses

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

Skills needed

  • 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

How to get into this role

You can get into this job by applying directly.

Career 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.