Midday Meal Supervisor – Southend-on-Sea Primary Schools

Location: Southend-on-Sea Essex
Organisation: MDMS School Support Services
Contract Type: Part-Time Term-Time Only
Hours: 12 hours per day Monday to Friday

Make a Difference at Lunchtime in Southend-on-Sea Schools

Lunchtime is one of the most crucial parts of the school day. Its a period where children take a break from their lessons enjoy a meal and interact socially with friends. While many pupils look forward to this time it can also be overwhelming for some particularly younger or more vulnerable children.

MDMS is seeking Midday Meal Supervisors to join primary schools across Southend-on-Sea Essex. This rewarding role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with children want structured part-time hours and wish to make a tangible difference in their local school community.

Even though the role is typically just 12 hours per day your presence is vital for creating a safe structured and positive lunchtime environment for pupils.

Why Lunchtime Supervision Is Important

A Midday Meal Supervisors role goes beyond simple supervision. Lunchtime is an essential part of the school day where children:

• Develop friendships and social skills

• Build confidence and independence

• Recharge for afternoon lessons

• Learn to follow routines and rules

• Feel safe included and supported

By providing structure and guidance during this period you ensure children can enjoy a calm and rewarding lunchtime experience.

Key Responsibilities

As a Midday Meal Supervisor your responsibilities include:

1. Supervise Pupils

   • Monitor children in dining areas classrooms corridors and playgrounds

   • Ensure pupils are behaving safely and appropriately

   • Identify and support children who may need extra guidance

2. Support Mealtimes

   • Assist younger or vulnerable pupils with eating

   • Encourage positive mealtime routines and table manners

   • Promote independence while providing necessary support

3. Promote Positive Behaviour

   • Model respect kindness and politeness

   • Reinforce school rules consistently

   • Calmly manage minor conflicts between pupils

4. Manage Playtime

   • Supervise outdoor and indoor play sessions

   • Encourage inclusive activities and teamwork

   • Ensure the safe use of playground equipment

5. Provide Emotional Support

   • Support pupils who may feel anxious shy or upset

   • Be a friendly approachable and trusted adult

6. Health Safety and First Aid

   • Be aware of dietary requirements allergies and medical needs

   • Administer basic first aid if required (training provided)

   • Report accidents incidents or safeguarding concerns promptly

7. Team Collaboration

   • Work alongside teachers teaching assistants and other lunchtime staff

   • Follow school routines to ensure smooth transitions between lunch play and lessons

8. Maintaining Routine and Structure

   • Support consistent lunchtime routines

   • Create a calm and structured environment where all pupils feel safe

Who Should Apply

No formal qualifications or prior school experience are required. MDMS seeks individuals who are:

• Friendly approachable and patient

• Confident supervising groups of children

• Calm and consistent in behaviour management

• Observant reliable and attentive to childrens needs

• Able to work collaboratively as part of a school team

This role is especially suitable for:

• Parents or carers seeking term-time school-hour work

• Retirees looking for purposeful engagement in the community

• Individuals interested in education childcare or school support roles

Training and Support Provided

MDMS provides full training and support to ensure you feel confident and effective in your role:

• Induction covering school routines policies and expectations

• Safeguarding and child protection training

• Guidance on behaviour management and dealing with minor conflicts

• Ongoing support from MDMS coordinators

• Opportunities to gain valuable experience for future education or childcare roles

Working Hours and Benefits

• Term-time only no work during school holidays

• Part-time typically 12 hours per day

• Monday to Friday schedule

• Placement across multiple Southend-on-Sea primary schools

• Flexible predictable hours that suit family life study or other commitments

Even with short daily hours the role provides high-impact experience helping children feel safe happy and supported.

Safeguarding and Equality

MDMS is committed to safeguarding children and promoting equality. All appointments are subject to:

• Enhanced DBS check

• Verification of Right to Work in the UK

• References from previous employers or character referees

MDMS is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.

Why Join MDMS in Southend-on-Sea

• Make a tangible positive impact on childrens daily school experiences

• Work in welcoming supportive community-focused schools

• Enjoy flexible part-time term-time working hours

• Gain valuable experience in school support roles

• Be part of a trusted education staffing organisation

By joining MDMS you will help create safe structured and enjoyable lunchtimes supporting pupils social emotional and academic development.

Apply Today

If you are caring reliable and enjoy working with children apply now to become a Midday Meal Supervisor with MDMS in Southend-on-Sea. Your role ensures children feel safe happy and included making lunchtime a positive and rewarding part of their school day.