Catering and Learning Support Assistant

About the Role

Esteem South Academy is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Catering Learning Support Assistant (CLSA) to join our team. This is a varied and rewarding role, combining food preparation and service with supporting pupils’ learning, wellbeing, and social development.

Working across the academy, you will play a key role in ensuring pupils receive high-quality care, nutritional support, and a positive learning environment. You will also support teaching staff with the preparation and delivery of cooking lessons and help create engaging activities for pupils throughout the school day.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about working with young people, enjoys a hands-on role, and can support behaviour using a trauma-informed approach.

Key Responsibilities

Catering & Food Preparation

• Prepare, serve, and clear food and drinks at breakfast, breaktimes, and lunchtime
• Manage weekly food orders and collect supplies from external providers
• Maintain kitchen organisation, cleanliness, and food hygiene standards
• Ensure correct storage, labelling, and compliance with health & safety regulations
• Support the staff room with refreshments to promote staff wellbeing

Classroom & Learning Support

• Prepare resources and ingredients for cooking lessons
• Support teachers during practical sessions, ensuring pupils follow safe cooking practices
• Assist in classroom management, behaviour support, and clearing away after lessons
• Contribute to displays of pupil work

Pupil Care & Supervision

• Supervise pupils during breaktimes and lunchtimes, promoting positive behaviour
• Support pupils with meals, encouraging independence and social skills
• Respond to personal care, mobility, and hygiene needs with sensitivity
• Help organise engaging recreational activities, including on wet days
• Supervise pupil areas including dining spaces and toilets

Safeguarding & Pastoral Support

• Promote pupils’ emotional wellbeing and social development
• Apply a trauma-informed approach to behaviour management
• Act as a First Aider (training provided if required)
• Adhere to safeguarding policies and report concerns appropriately

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a positive, nurturing, and patient approach
• Enjoys working as part of a collaborative team
• Can build strong relationships with pupils and staff
• Has an understanding of (or willingness to learn about) trauma-informed practices
• Someone who can drive and has access to a car with business insurance
• Is organised, proactive, and able to multitask in a busy environment
• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Experience in a school, catering, or support role is desirable, but not essential—training will be provided.

Why Join Esteem Multi-Academy Trust?

• Be part of a supportive and inclusive team
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• Make a genuine difference to pupils’ lives every day
• Work within a values-driven organisation committed to pupil wellbeing

Safeguarding Commitment

Esteem Multi-Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.

Apply Now

If you are passionate about supporting young people and want to be part of a caring and forward-thinking academy, we would love to hear from you.