What are you looking for

Average salary (a year)

Average salary (a year)

10 to 18 term time

Typical hours (a week)

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this job

You can get into this job by applying directly.

Direct Application

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.

What it takes

Find out what skills you will use in this role

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:

What you will do

Discover the day to day takes you'll do in this role

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 profession

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities

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.

Explore a range of careers from all sectors in the careers directory.