Meal Time Assistant

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: 12pm on 5^th February 2026

Start: ASAP

We are seeking a friendly and enthusiastic MTA 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 a candidate who enjoys working with children, is happy to get involved in play, and who understands 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.

We would love to hear from you if you:

·        Enjoy working with children and being outdoors

·        Are confident interacting with and supporting children at play

·        Are 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.

To arrange a tour of the school please contact the school on 01752 395969 or via email on SMPA.office@stcmat.org

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

If you have any issues applying for this role please contact The People Team via people@stcmat.org

Applications need to be completed by 12pm on 5^th February 2026. Interviews will be in the week commencing 9^th February 2026.

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

Our 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.