Location: Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Organisation: MDMS – School Support Services
Contract Type: Part-Time | Term-Time Only
Hours: 1–2 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. It’s 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 1–2 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 Supervisor’s 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 children’s 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 1–2 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 children’s 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.