Job Description

Nursery Practitioner Lunch cover

Department: Little Elms Catford

Employment Type: Part Time

Location: Little Elms Daycare Nursery Catford

Compensation: £12.71 / hour

We are currently recruiting for a Lunch Cover Nursery Nurse to be based at our Catford nursery on Muirkirk road. The nursery offers state-of-the-art facilities, combining bright and spacious indoor rooms along with fabulous outdoor areas.
You will be working 20 hours per week (Mon-Fri) from 11am to 3pm.
To be considered for the Nursery Nurse Lunch Cover role you must have:

• Be able to work Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm (all year round)
• Level 2 / 3 or above qualification in early years essential
• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Ability to use your own initiative
• Your passion to be shown in your day-to-day interaction with children

Little Elms amazing benefits for you -

• Service recognition awards – get an extra day’s annual leave, for each year worked
• Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme (provided by BUPA)
• Generous Childcare discount
• Support to gain higher qualifications
• Internal promotion opportunities
• Free Uniform
• New starter goody bag

Things you need to know –

• This position is subject to an Enhanced DBS Certificate and satisfactory employment references.
• The successful candidate will be required to undertake online safeguarding training and all positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
• Little Elms Daycare Nurseries are an Equal Opportunities Employer
• Little Elms Daycare Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare the dining area, including arranging tables and chairs.
• Assist in serving food and drinks, ensuring portion sizes are appropriate.
• Encourage and support children in developing independence, such as using cutlery and feeding themselves.
• Monitor and assist children with allergies or dietary needs, following the nursery’s policies.
• Promote good table manners and positive social interactions during meals.

Health & Safety

• Follow hygiene and food safety procedures (e.g., washing hands before serving food).
• Ensure children are seated safely and supervise them to prevent choking risks.
• Clean and sanitize tables, chairs, and eating areas before and after meals.
• Dispose of food waste appropriately and follow recycling guidelines.

• Supervise children during lunch, ensuring they remain seated and eat properly.
• Engage in conversation, encouraging language development and social skills.
• Comfort and assist younger children who may struggle with eating.
• Recognize and respond to any signs of distress, discomfort, or allergies.

• Assist in transitioning children to and from the lunch area smoothly.
• Supervise children in play areas after meals, ensuring safe and appropriate activities.
• Help settle children for naps if required in the routine.

• Work collaboratively with nursery staff to maintain a smooth lunchtime routine.
• Communicate any concerns about children’s eating habits or behaviour to key staff.
• Follow all safeguarding policies and procedures.