Developing Lunch Time Supervisors

We've approached by a number of schools to train their lunchtime supervisors. Hard working people who deliver a massively important thankless task at just above minimum wage. They tell us that they feel undervalued by the workforce and are subject to low-levels of co-operation from children and young people.

Where we've put some training in things have changed for the better. After using our systems the Supervisors have reported that they "feel better about their jobs" and this has had a significant impact on learners. The chief element of change seems to be to increase the worth and regard the supervisors are held in by the rest of the work-force and to get the message across to the kids that Lunch Time Supervisors should enjoy the same level of regard and respect as that given to other team members.

Assertiveness skills, handling your own anger and adopting a common approach seem to have made a difference in every case. Schools should be safe at lunchtimes, this sort of thinking does not come cheap-they need to consider the benefits of the investment. Safer schools, a reduction in bullying and intimidation and a better start to the afternoon session give some indication of the value of the investment in training and development. Trained supervisors have a greater sense of confidence, worth and value and can use their skills in other areas, allowing them to progress in their jobs with the Children's Workforce