Lunch and recess breaks enable students to have something to eat, enjoy some fresh air, use the toilets and so on. It is also a great time to socialise, browse in the library or get some physical exercise.

Recess is usually mid-morning for approximately 15 minutes and lunch is usually around midday. The time and duration of these may vary from school to school.

Students are not permitted to leave the school premises during this time unless they have a note of permission signed by a parent/caregiver and also signed and approved by the school.

Some schools operate a school canteen/tuckshop where students can purchase food during breaks. All recess and lunch periods are supervised by teachers.