Lunchtime Assistant

To support the nursery team during lunchtime by helping to provide a safe, calm and enjoyable mealtime experience for children, while also supporting staff across the nursery and ensuring rooms are clean, organised and ready for the afternoon.

Key Responsibilities

Support children during mealtimes, encouraging healthy eating, independence and positive mealtime experiences.

Assist with serving food and drinks in line with nursery procedures.

Be aware of and follow individual children's dietary requirements, allergies and eating plans.

Ensure children are appropriately supervised throughout lunchtime.

Support children with personal care and hygiene routines before and after meals.

Set up tables, chairs and mealtime areas before lunch.

Clear away plates, cups, cutlery and food after mealtimes.

Clean and sanitise tables, chairs, floors and other surfaces following lunchtime.

Ensure dining areas and rooms are left clean, tidy and ready for the afternoon.

Wash and put away relevant crockery, utensils and equipment as required.

Assist with general cleaning duties throughout the lunchtime period.

Cover staff lunch breaks, ensuring appropriate staffing levels and supervision are maintained across the nursery.

Support different rooms as required, working flexibly according to the needs of the nursery.

Assist practitioners during busy periods, including supporting children's routines and transitions.

Report any accidents, incidents, hazards or concerns to the appropriate member of staff.

Follow all nursery safeguarding, health and safety, food hygiene and infection control procedures.

Maintain confidentiality and professional standards at all times.

Work positively and cooperatively as part of the wider nursery team.

Promote a calm, welcoming and nurturing environment for children and colleagues.

Person Specification

Caring, friendly and approachable.

Reliable, organised and able to work independently.

Able to work flexibly and as part of a team.

Good understanding of hygiene and health and safety.

Comfortable working around young children and supporting their individual needs.

Willing to undertake relevant training and follow nursery procedures.

Previous nursery or childcare experience is desirable but not essential.