Meal Time Assistant

St Christopher's Multi Academy Tust; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 4,000 - 7,000; Part time

Job summary

A local educational institution in Plymouth is hiring two Meal Time Assistants to enhance children's lunchtime experience. The role involves engaging children in play, helping them develop social skills, and working as part of a supportive team. With flexible play opportunities, successful candidates will enjoy a rewarding environment focused on children's growth. Candidates should be enthusiastic about outdoor play and confident in supporting children’s learning through fun activities.

Benefits

Local Government Pension Scheme

Engaging work environment

Opportunity for progression

Qualifications

• Experience of working with children is an advantage, but right attitude is key.
• Ability to engage children in play and support their development.

Responsibilities

• Assist in lunchtime activities and ensure children's safety.
• Lead and promote high-quality play and social interaction.

Skills

Enjoy working with children

Confidence in leading games

Social skills support

Team collaboration

Job description

Overview

2 x Meal Time Assistants
St Matthew’s Primary and Nursery Academy, Derriford
Contract Term: Permanent
Hours: 8.75 hours per week, Monday – Friday
Salary: SC1 NJC point 2 Actual Salary £4,861 (FTE £24,413)
Term Time only: 38 weeks per annum
Annual Leave: Taken outside of term time and paid pro-rata throughout the year (no annual leave to be taken during term time)
Benefits: Local Government Pension Scheme
Deadline for application: 9am on Tuesday 6th January 2026
Start: Thursday 8th January 2026

We are seeking two friendly and enthusiastic MTAs to join our lunchtime team. Our lunchtimes follow the OPAL approach, which means our focus is on high-quality play, exploration and building children’s social skills.

We are looking for people who enjoy working with children, are happy to get involved in play, and who understand that play can be adventurous, messy and full of imagination! You will help children explore, collaborate and take appropriate risks within a safe, supportive and engaging environment.

What we’re looking for

• Enjoy working with children and being outdoors
• Confident interacting with and supporting children at play
• Not afraid to get stuck in and lead games or activities
• Understand that play is a valuable part of learning and development
• Can support children with social skills, friendships and problem-solving
• Can work as part of a friendly, supportive team

Experience of working with children is an advantage, but not essential — the right attitude, energy and willingness to be hands‑on are more important.

What we offer

• A welcoming and committed lunchtime team who all muck in together
• OPAL playtimes with a wide range of outdoor opportunities and resources
• Opportunities to work alongside Teaching Assistants and school staff at lunch
• A positive school culture that values play, wellbeing and inclusion
• Opportunities for wider school experience and possible progression in the future

If you are looking for a fun and rewarding role where no two lunchtimes are the same, and you’re excited to help children learn through adventurous play, we would love to hear from you.

Application Details

To arrange a tour of the school please contact the school on 01752 395969 or via email on [e-mail]

Please ensure you refer to the criteria for the role on the person specification in your supporting statement.

Please visit the below link for information on how to apply: https://www.stchristophersmat.org/work-with-us/current-vacancies

If you have any issues applying for this role please contact The People Team via [e-mail]

Please note it is our process to apply for references for shortlisted applicants and to complete online searches in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, for all shortlisted applicants. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this post.

Please visit the below website for our Trust policies and our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy: https://www.stchristophersmat.org/key-information/item/10/trust-policies

Commitment to EDI

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants who meet the criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age or veteran status.