Building Connections Through Lunch Clubs: A Space for Belonging and Friendship

At St Joseph's Beenleigh, we understand that lunchtime can be one of the most unstructured—and sometimes challenging—parts of a student’s day. That’s why our Lunch Clubs have become such a valuable part of our school community.

Lunch Clubs offer students a welcoming space to connect, relax, and engage with peers in a supportive environment. Whether it's through games, creative activities, or simply enjoying a quiet moment away from the hustle of the playground, there's something for everyone. These clubs foster positive social interactions and help students build meaningful relationships.​

* Promoting Social Inclusion: Lunch Clubs are open to everyone, creating opportunities for students who may feel isolated or shy to find their place and feel part of a group.

* Encouraging Peer Interaction: By providing structured yet relaxed settings, students are more likely to engage with others, improving their communication and teamwork skills.

* Supporting Emotional Wellbeing: Feeling connected and accepted can significantly boost a student’s confidence and overall happiness at school.

* Creating Safe Spaces: Lunch Clubs offer a calm alternative to the busy playground, giving students a chance to recharge in a safe and friendly atmosphere.

Each club is unique—some focus on board games, others on art, music, or quiet conversation. Staff and student leaders help guide activities, ensuring everyone feels welcome and included.

We’ve seen a wonderful increase in participation, and the feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared how these clubs have helped them make new friends and feel more connected to their school community.

Students explore the art of paper folding, creating designs from square pieces of paper. This club promotes patience, creativity, and mindfulness, while providing a quiet space for students to connect through collaborative projects.

A hands-on club where imagination takes the lead! Students build structures, vehicles, and scenes together, promoting teamwork, problem-solving, and spatial awareness in a fun, collaborative setting.

Swify Club 

Named for its focus on friendship and creativity, students make colourful bracelets to share or keep. It’s a gentle, social space that fosters kindness, conversation, and fine motor skills.

Students express themselves through movement, learning routines or freestyling to music. Dance Club boosts confidence, coordination, and provides a joyful outlet for energy and emotion.

Students get their hands dirty planting, watering, and caring for the school’s green spaces. Gardening teaches responsibility, patience, and environmental awareness, while offering a calming, outdoor experience.

A cosy corner for readers to share stories, discuss books, and discover new favourites. Book Club nurtures imagination, empathy, and literacy, while giving quieter students a chance to bond over shared interests.

From strategy games to classics like Uno, students play together in a relaxed, inclusive environment. Board Games Club builds social skills, turn-taking, and friendly competition.

Students come together to sing songs, learn harmonies, and enjoy music. Singing Club promotes self-expression, teamwork, and confidence, and is a great way to lift spirits and build community.

Print it out and stick it on your fridge to make it easy to refer to during morning chats with your child. It can help them decide what they might like to do at lunch as an alternative to the playground or the Sr Jenny Centre.