At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise and engage with children during lunch and playtime.
- Company: Hill Park Special School, dedicated to child welfare and equality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and training provided.
- Other info: Flexible hours available and support for staff living in the city.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives while enjoying a fun work environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for working with children and ability to manage challenging situations.
The predicted salary is between 26403 - 26824 £ per year.
Location: Hill Park Special School, Foredown Road, Portslade, BN41 2FU
Salary: £26,403 - £26,824 per annum (pro rata)
Contractual hours: 10 per week
Positions available: 5
Part-time: 10 hours (Monday to Friday – 11.30am-1.30pm)
Paid weeks per year: 43.89 (inclusive of holiday entitlement)
Start date: September 2026
About the Role
We are looking to recruit Mid-day Supervisory Assistants on our Primary site in Portslade to work from 11.30am to 1.30pm with class teams across the lunch period. This role could be based in the school hall where the children eat, in the classroom or in the playground and will include:
- Encouraging good manners and assisting children with their food where necessary
- Interacting with the children in outdoor play
- Supervising children in classrooms on wet days
- Working 1-1 with specific children when required
- Enjoy working with children
- Be able to manage a challenging environment, both physically and mentally
The role may require intimate and personal care but full training will be provided. Additional casual/bank hours outside of these may also be available.
To support staff living in the City we are members of the Rental Deposit Loan Scheme run by Brighton & Hove City Council and further details of this are available upon request.
Closing date: 9am Friday 12th June 2026
Interview date: Wednesday 24th June 2026
How to apply: Please return the completed application form by email to: vacanciesupper@hillpark.brighton-hove.sch.uk
Telephone: (01273) 422855
Website: www.hillpark.brighton-hove.sch.uk
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and is subject to a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Check. We take safeguarding and child protection seriously and all posts at Hill Park are subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Certificate.
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.
MDSA (Mid-day Supervisory Assistant) employer: Brighton
Hill Park Special School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of both its students and staff. With a supportive work culture, comprehensive training, and opportunities for personal growth, employees can thrive in a rewarding environment dedicated to making a positive impact on children's lives. Located in Portslade, the school also offers unique benefits such as participation in the Rental Deposit Loan Scheme, making it easier for staff to settle in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MDSA (Mid-day Supervisory Assistant)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Hill Park Special School and understand its values and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on social media or professional platforms. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school, which could give you an edge during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to working with children. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills. We want to see how you handle challenges!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and serious about the position. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace MDSA (Mid-day Supervisory Assistant)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what the role of a Mid-day Supervisory Assistant involves and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications to highlight relevant experience and skills. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for this role at Hill Park!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and enthusiasm for working with children.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brighton
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Mid-day Supervisory Assistant involves. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities like encouraging good manners and supervising playtime. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Kids
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences you've had, whether it's babysitting, volunteering, or previous roles. This will demonstrate that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you truly enjoy engaging with kids.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations, like managing challenging behaviour or assisting a child during lunch. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar scenarios. This will show your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school’s approach to child welfare or how they support staff development. This shows that you’re engaged and serious about contributing positively to the school environment.
