At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise children during lunch and encourage positive play on the playground.
- Company: Join a friendly, multicultural primary school committed to improvement and staff wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment with ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time role, 5 hours a week, term time only, with a focus on safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your own career.
- Qualifications: Be organised, a team player, and able to engage with children effectively.
What is the job role?
The Headteacher and Governing Body are looking to appoint an enthusiastic, highly motivated and flexible Dining Room Assistant to work in our friendly and caring inner city, multicultural primary school. You will be required to help supervise children while they eat their lunch and support on the playground during the lunch break, encouraging positive play. You will work under the supervision of the School Business Manager Assistant.
Required September 2026
You will:
- Be a well‑organised team player
- Be able to engage with children to make lunchtime safe and fun!
- Be a good communicator
We can offer:
- Kind, caring, hard‑working and motivated children
- Friendly, supportive and motivated staff team who are committed to improvement
- Positive working environment with a proactive commitment to staff wellbeing
- A school on a journey of ongoing improvement and development
- Full commitment to ongoing professional development opportunities
The vacancy is for 5 hours a week over 5 days, term time only. Hours of work to be confirmed, but will be within the times of 11:45am and 1:30pm (1 hour a day).
Previous applicants need not apply.
This School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Who are we looking for?
Our workforce data shows that men and people from minority ethnic backgrounds are under‑represented; we encourage applicants from these backgrounds to apply. This does not prevent individuals with or without other protected characteristics as set out within the Equality Act 2010 from applying for this post.
The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced criminal record check via the DBS, all relevant safeguarding and pre‑employment clearances, and the receipt of two satisfactory references.
Following recommendations from Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for an additional pre‑employment check with effect 1 Sept 22, please note, an online search may form part of this recruitment process.
https://www.johngulson.coventry.sch.uk/Safeguarding/
Please apply online.
Closing date:02/07/2026
Interview date: Week commencing 06/07/2026.
Lunchtime Assistant - John Gulson Primary School employer: Coventry City
Coventry City is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and employee development. As a Site Services Officer at St Christopher Primary School, you will enjoy generous annual leave and the opportunity to contribute to a safe and welcoming environment for students and staff alike, making your role both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lunchtime Assistant - John Gulson Primary School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and values. Understanding John Gulson Primary School's commitment to improvement and staff wellbeing will help you align your approach during the interview, showcasing how you can contribute positively to their environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community. Since this is an inner-city school, demonstrating your awareness of the multicultural aspects and how you can support children from diverse backgrounds will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with children. Think of specific examples where you've successfully engaged with kids or created a fun and safe environment, as this will be crucial for the role of Lunchtime Assistant.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for professional development. The school values ongoing training, so express your eagerness to learn and grow within the role, which will demonstrate your long-term commitment to the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Lunchtime Assistant - John Gulson Primary School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Lunchtime Assistant position. Highlight key skills such as teamwork, organisation, and child engagement in your application.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience, especially any work with children or in a school environment. Emphasise your ability to create a safe and enjoyable lunchtime experience for children.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with children and your commitment to their wellbeing. Mention why you want to join John Gulson Primary School and how you can contribute to their positive environment.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, double-check your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Coventry City
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children during the interview. Share any relevant experiences you have had, whether in a professional or volunteer capacity, that demonstrate your ability to engage and connect with kids.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
As a Lunchtime Assistant, you'll be part of a team. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment before. Emphasise your ability to collaborate and support your colleagues to create a positive atmosphere.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Being well-organised is crucial for this role. Prepare to talk about how you manage your time and tasks effectively, especially in a busy school setting. You might want to share specific strategies you use to stay organised.
✨Understand the Importance of Safeguarding
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding policies and why they are essential in a school environment. Be ready to discuss how you would contribute to creating a safe and supportive environment for children during lunchtime.
