At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise children during lunch and ensure a positive mealtime experience.
- Company: Join St. Mary's C of E Primary School, part of The Harbour Trust Partnership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Permanent role with flexible hours, perfect for students looking for part-time work.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of children's lunchtime, fostering good behaviour and relationships.
- Qualifications: Confident in supervising children, good communication skills, and a positive attitude.
Salary: NJC Grade A3 £24,796 FTE (This will be paid pro-rata to reflect hours and weeks worked). Please note that the pro-rata salary for this role is £4,194 (A3) gross per annum (subject to change depending on agreed working pattern on appointment).
Working Pattern: This is a permanent position working 7.5 hours per week, 38 weeks per year (Monday to Friday).
St. Mary's C of E Primary School are looking for a friendly, reliable and caring Mealtime Assistant to join our school team. You will play a vital role in supporting pupils during the lunchtime period, ensuring a safe, positive and enjoyable mealtime experience.
About the Role
Your main focus will be to help supervise children during lunch and support the smooth running of the dining environment. Key responsibilities include:
- Setting up and clearing the dining room before and after service
- Supervising pupils to ensure safe, positive behaviour
- Encouraging good table manners and cleanliness
- Assisting children with cutlery where needed
- Administering first aid in line with school policy
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking someone who is:
- Able to supervise children confidently and calmly
- Literate, numerate and able to follow instructions
- A good communicator who can work effectively with pupils and staff
- A team player with a positive, supportive attitude
- Able to carry out the duties of the post with reasonable adjustments where necessary
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience working with children
- Experience in a catering environment
- GCSE‑level education or equivalent
Why Join Us?
As part of The Harbour Trust Partnership, you will be joining a school committed to equality, inclusion and fostering good relationships within the community. If you enjoy working with children and want to support a welcoming, well‑organised lunchtime environment, we’d love to hear from you. This role requires an enhanced DBS disclosure.
To apply for this role please submit your application online; your supporting statement should outline your suitability for the post. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 15th July 2026, interviews will be held on Monday 20th July 2026. Successful applicants will be subject to an online search.
The Harbour Schools Partnership require all applicants to be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions, as we are unable to offer sponsorship/work visas. You will be required to provide proof of Right to Work at interview stage.
The Harbour Schools Partnership
The Harbour Schools Partnership is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and an enhanced disclosure is required for this post. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is available on the relevant school website.
Our Vision
Our vision is to give every child the skills and experiences they need for their next step in life. At St. Mary’s C of E Primary School, we aim to provide a high-quality education that develops children intellectually, socially, morally, physically and spiritually within a Christian environment.
Core Values
The Harbour Schools Partnership believes that our values drive our behaviours which in turn create the culture of an organisation. Our core values are:
- Compassion
- Respect
- Honesty
Mealtime Assistant in Bideford employer: The Harbour Schools Partnership
At St. Mary's C of E Primary School, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive employer, dedicated to fostering a positive work environment where every team member can thrive. As a Mealtime Assistant, you will play a crucial role in shaping the lunchtime experience for our pupils, all while enjoying the benefits of working within a community-focused school that values compassion, respect, and honesty. With opportunities for personal growth and a commitment to safeguarding, joining our team means becoming part of a nurturing environment that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students.
Contact Details:
The Harbour Schools Partnership Recruitment Team
