Pilgrim Primary Academy, Reach South Academy Trust is seeking to appoint two Mealtime Assistants to join the School as soon as possible.
Mealtime Assistant
Location: Pilgrim Primary Academy, Oxford Street, Plymouth, PL1 5BQ
Salary Range: Grade A, £24,796, pro‑rated per annum (£4,472 per week)
Hours/Contract: Part‑time, 7.5 hours per week, Fixed Term, Term time, 39 weeks a year
About the role
We are looking for two caring Mealtime Assistants (MTA) to supervise and ensure the safety of children during lunchtime. These roles will help embed a recently introduced improved lunchtime structure for our pupils. You will work one hour and thirty minutes each day, Monday to Friday, over the lunchtime period (times to be confirmed on appointment).
The main duties are:
- Supervise children in the dining areas.
- Encourage good table manners and ensure plates are cleared.
- Maintain safety awareness, wipe up spills, monitor safe movement.
- Model and supervise safe play on the playground.
- Support pupils’ well‑being and model supportive social interactions.
About the successful candidate
Experience working with children is not essential; we look for a passion to improve children’s life chances in a school environment and an ability to work inside and outside in all weathers.
About the School
Pilgrim is a friendly, caring and welcoming place. Children’s learning, happiness and well‑being are at the heart of all we do. We build strong, respectful relationships between pupils, staff, parents and the wider community.
We aim to develop confident young people with high aspiration, clear self‑identity as learners and citizens, and who can contribute positively to their futures and those of others.
About the Trust
We are a family of schools working in partnership for all our pupils. The Trust’s charitable aim is to advance education through collaboration within the Trust and beyond.
We operate 21 academies across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, serving learners aged 3 to 19. Our primary, all‑through, technical, special and alternative provision settings support inclusive, high‑quality education for pupils with a wide range of needs.
Those we recruit must share our values and be highly motivated to work with colleagues inside and beyond the school, continuously develop skills and pursue professional excellence.
Next Steps
To be considered, please call Mercedes Triscott, Office Manager, at 01752 225319 or email mercedes.triscott@pilgrimprimary.org. We reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date, so early application is strongly advised.
Closing date: 28th August 2026
Interview date: 9th September 2026
To apply for this opportunity, please complete our online application form by clicking ‘apply now’ on the advert.Opportunities and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary plus LGPS pension, career progression and development opportunities, access to our Employee Assistance Programme and many other benefits.
We support staff to achieve high job satisfaction, recognise the impact of their work, and provide professional development and training through e‑learning and face‑to‑face sessions.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Each post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Equal Opportunities
Reach South Academy Trust has an Equal Opportunities Policy for selection and recruitment. Applicants are requested to complete the Equal Opportunities Monitoring section of the application form before submitting.
[260709C] Mealtime Assistant in Plymouth employer: Pilgrim Primary Academy
At Pilgrim Primary Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture where every team member plays a vital role in creating a safe and welcoming environment for our students. As a part-time cleaner, you will enjoy flexible working hours during term time, competitive benefits including LGPS pension eligibility, and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of our school community. Join us and be part of a dedicated team that values your hard work and commitment to excellence.
