The Inclusion Showcase

St Peter's CE Primary School, Ashton - Peer Pals and Lunch Bunch - Playground Lunch Time Buddies

Presenters

Jeanette Marshall

Why did you decide to undertake this piece of work? How had you identified the need?

We had heard about the success of this kind of scheme in other schools and decided we would like to try it out at ours. Our head teacher arranged for a Consultant who had worked with her previously at a Manchester School to come and work with our Year Six children on Conflict Resolution. He had previously worked with youth and in the prison service.

At the time there was a lot of fighting and arguing at lunchtime mainly in the K.S.2 area and we realised a lot of it was because of the lack of structured activities for the children to do. It was also felt that giving the older children some responsibility in looking after the younger ones might improve their own behaviour.

What were the objectives and intended outcomes?

The objective was to create a safe and happy environment for all the children to play in and for the older children to take on responsibility for their own behaviour and be positive role models for the younger ones.

What actions did you take over what time frame?

Initially, after a few weeks' training in conflict resolution, all the class were given job descriptions and asked which they would prefer to be - Peer Pal or Lunch Bunch. Peer Pals are the ones who look out for children who are unhappy or lonely and are there for the children to talk to if they need any help. The Lunch Bunch help the midday staff to organise games and activities, put out and look after the equipment and play with the other children. After completion, each application was read and assessed and then each child was interviewed. The panel then decided which children were suited best to each job.

What were the resource implications?

We secured funding to buy uniform and a large supply of new equipment and all the children were trained on how to use and look after it. Peer Pals have green caps and bands and the Lunch Bunch have red. They all have badges with their names and job titles on.

What has been the impact? How have you measured outcomes?

Over the years we have now been operating the scheme, there has been a marked improvement in behaviour and a reduction in the number of bullying incidents. We have also operated the FITBODS scheme and involved the Peer Pals and Lunch Bunch in the facilitating of that. This was also very successful. The children are, on the whole, very enthusiastic and enjoy their work. They operate on a rota which allows them all at least one week in three off duty. Each month the PP/LB who has performed best is rewarded with a certificate and a prize.

What do you plan to do next? How will you ensure sustainability?

Towards the end of each school year, we begin the process of selection with the Year Five children and give them a taster of what is expected of them before the summer holidays. New play equipment is purchased when necessary. We are also fortunate to have adult play leaders out there at lunchtime now to organise team games.

What were your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

I would say one of the biggest challenges (apart from funding) is time for training the children. Resources are no problem whatsoever as I have acquired some fantastic books, videos and games over the years. Currently the Lunch Bunch are advised and supervised by the play leader when outside and training is on going. Peer Pals have a handbook to refer to and have sessions (usually at lunch times when not on duty) where problems are discussed and decisions made collectively.

If you were to do it again, what would you do differently?

We are continuing to do it every year with a new group of children. As for differently, I suppose the answer is to continue to use strategies and resources that we know work and at the same time introduce new ones that may meet our needs.

How can you be contacted if people want to know more?

By contacting the school on 0161-330-1691 or by e-mail on admin@st-peters-ashton.tameside.sch.uk to arrange to meet with relevant members of staff and see the children in action.

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