Overview
The Pre‑School Lunch Club Assistant supports children during lunchtime, helping to create a safe, calm, and nurturing environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with young children, understands early‑years routines, and can bring patience, warmth, and reliability to the middle of the day.
Key Responsibilities
Child Supervision & Support
- Work with a team to supervise children aged 2–5 years old during lunch club sessions to ensure safety and hygiene at all times
- Encourage positive eating habits and support children who need help opening food containers, cutting food, or managing their lunch.
- Promote independence while offering gentle guidance.
- Monitor children’s wellbeing and respond appropriately to any concerns.
Safety & Wellbeing
- Ensure the lunch area is safe, clean, and welcoming.
- Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead.
- Support children with toileting needs in line with the setting’s policies.
- Manage minor accidents calmly and appropriately.
Behaviour & Social Development
- Encourage good manners, turn‑taking, and positive social interactions.
- Model respectful communication and help children navigate small conflicts.
- Create a calm, friendly atmosphere that supports children’s emotional security.
Teamwork & Communication
- Work closely with pre‑school staff to maintain consistent routines.
- Communicate any issues, achievements, or observations about children’s lunchtime behaviour.
- Assist with setting up and clearing away lunch areas.
Person Specification
Essential
- Enjoys working with young children and understands their needs.
- Warm, patient, and able to build positive relationships.
- Reliable, punctual, and able to follow routines.
- Able to work as part of a team and communicate clearly.
- Committed to safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare.
Desirable
- Experience in an early‑years or school setting.
- Paediatric first aid training or the willingness to undertake this training
- Knowledge of EYFS principles.
- Food hygiene awareness or qualification or the willingness to undertake this training
Hours & Working Pattern
- 1 hour per day over lunchtime, 11.30am - 12.30pm with the opportunity to take on more ad hoc hours where available.
- Term‑time only.
Why This Role Matters
Lunch club is more than a meal break—it’s a moment where children practise independence, build friendships, and feel cared for. A great Lunch Club Assistant helps make that experience smooth, joyful, and safe.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
