Lunchtime Assistant

Job Description

Chichester Nursery School are looking forward to appointing a friendly and hard-working Lunchtime Assistant to support the lunchtime sessions with children aged 3-4 in our Nursery School.

5 hours per week
Monday to Friday - 12pm - 1pm
Term Time Only (with the occasional flexibility to start work at 11.30am when needed)
Fixed Contract to 22nd July 2027, with the possibility of renewal
Grade 3 £13.23 per hour pro rata

Closing date: 25th November 2026
Interview date: 30th November 2026

During lunchtimes, you will support a small group of children, encouraging the development of their independence skills while creating a warm, caring, and nurturing environment. You will also assist with clearing away after lunch and carrying out washing-up duties to help maintain a clean and organised setting.

The successful candidate will be able to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team. They will have a basic understanding of food hygiene principles and either hold, or be willing to undertake training towards, a Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification. They will be proactive, able to identify what needs to be done, and use their initiative to support the smooth running of the setting.

A genuine enjoyment of working with children is essential for this role.

This post is subject to enhanced DBS clearance in line with our commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, as well as references and health checks. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Safeguarding Statement

Chichester Nursery School and West Sussex County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service check along with other relevant employment checks, including satisfactory references.

How to Apply

NOTE TO CANDIDATES - Please do not select the ‘Apply online’ button as the school processes your applications directly rather than through this site.​

To apply for this role please click on the Application Attachment links below.

Please complete the application form and ensure that you outline your motivations for applying and explaining the skills and experience you can bring to the role (please refer to the key skills in the job description).

Once complete please return this to office@chichesternursery.org

Should you have any questions regarding the role or the application please contact the school directly.

Application Attachments:

Application Form - Non Teaching

Lunchtime Assistant Advert

Lunchtime Assistant Job Description

#LI-DNI

Responsibilities

1. Set and prepare tables for children’s lunch

2. Sit with children at small tables and support the children to serve themselves food and open lunchbox packets and containers

3. Support children in using cutlery to eat if having a cooked lunch and in trying new foods

4. Support healthy packed lunch policy by using feedback systems to advise parents of unsuitable lunchbox contents

5. Collect used plates, dishes and cutlery

6. Wipe down tables and mop the floor after lunch has finished

7. Rinse dishes, process them through steriliser, dry and put away

8. Carry out procedures to ensure satisfactory compliance with health and safety and food hygiene standards, including arrangements for children with food allergies

9. Maintain the tidiness and cleanliness of the kitchen area

10. Undertake training in order to be able to heat and prepare children’s meals safely, including the use of commercial microwave ovens

11. Interact with children in an appropriate and nurturing way

12. Adhere to policies and procedures of Chichester Nursery School,

13. Attend and contribute to relevant meetings and in service training as required.

14. Undertake other duties appropriate to the post required to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the school.

Qualifications

Essential

While no formal childcare qualifications are required, these would be welcomed. Previous experience in a similar role would be advantageous, although full training will be provided and applications from candidates without direct experience are encouraged.

• Have a good understanding of food hygiene and food preparation principles, and be willing to undertake training leading to a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Be proactive, able to use their own initiative, and identify tasks that need to be completed without direct supervision.