Lunchtime Assistant - 20 hours a week - 10:30am-2:30pm or 11am-3pm - Monday to Friday - From £12.21ph - Nursery based in Henley - TE63138
We are currently seeking a caring, reliable and enthusiastic Lunchtime Assistant to join our friendly nursery team. This is a rewarding role for someone who is passionate about supporting young children during a vital part of their day and who enjoys working as part of a committed childcare team. As a Lunchtime Assistant, you will play a key role in ensuring children feel safe, happy and supported during mealtimes, rest periods and transitions.
The successful Lunchtime Assistant will contribute to the delivery of high-quality childcare and education within the nursery by supporting children’s wellbeing, learning and development. You will help create a calm, nurturing environment where children feel secure and confident. A strong focus on safety is essential, and the Lunchtime Assistant will be responsible for minimising risks and preventing avoidable accidents.
Key Responsibilities and Main Tasks
As a Lunchtime Assistant, you will work over the staff lunch period to provide continuity of care. You will support smooth transitions between activities, mealtimes and sleep times, ensuring children are not left waiting and feel settled. Duties will include assisting children at mealtimes, feeding them where necessary or supporting them to serve and feed themselves in line with their age and development. The Lunchtime Assistant will ensure mealtimes are relaxed and social by sitting with children, talking with them and encouraging positive interaction.
You will also assist children during rest and sleep times, helping them feel safe and secure, while ensuring those who do not sleep are engaged in stimulating, age-appropriate activities. Accurate recording of sleep times, meals, nappy changes and toileting is an essential part of the Lunchtime Assistant role, as is making observations and sharing relevant information with the child’s Key Person.
Child, Parent and Team Care
A Lunchtime Assistant must work effectively as part of the nursery team, communicating clearly and contributing positively to staff morale. You will support children who may feel vulnerable, including new starters, and encourage good personal hygiene. You will also ensure children’s belongings and information are ready for parents and share appropriate information during drop-off and collection, directing queries as needed.
Administration, Communication and Health & Safety
The Lunchtime Assistant will ensure records and registers are accurate, follow all company policies and procedures, maintain confidentiality, and participate in meetings when required. You will uphold high standards of hygiene, support handwashing routines, clean and sterilise equipment, follow risk assessments, report accidents, and take part in fire drills.
If you are a dedicated Lunchtime Assistant who enjoys supporting children at this important time of day, we would love to hear from you