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- Tasks: Help prepare food and drinks while providing a warm, welcoming experience for customers.
- Company: Join WHALE Arts, a vibrant community arts centre in Wester Hailes.
- Benefits: Enjoy free lunch, travel expense claims, and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in customer service and barista skills within a friendly team.
- Qualifications: A friendly personality, good communication skills, and a passion for food and community.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; perfect for students looking to gain experience.
Location: WHALE Arts Centre, 30 Westburn Grove, EH14 2SA
Hours of Volunteering (6h): Tuesdays, 9am-3pm, (January 2025)
The Pod Café is a vibrant community café located within WHALE Arts, a community arts centre in the heart of Wester Hailes. After re-opening in August, we are now looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help us make the café a warm, welcoming space for everyone in the local area. As a café volunteer, you’ll be at the heart of our community space, helping to prepare food and hot drinks, and providing a welcoming experience for our customers. You’ll gain hands-on experience in customer service, food preparation, and barista skills, all while being part of a friendly and dedicated team.
The café is currently open every Tuesday from 10.30am to 2pm, with the shift giving time either side for set up and clear up. We are open and flexible for the role to be shared between different people who may want to split the shift or work alternative weeks.
Requirements:
- A friendly and engaging personality with good communication skills.
- Good time management and commitment to the role.
- Being comfortable working with members of the public and being able to provide good customer service.
- Interest in food and communities.
- Complying with Health & Safety standards, strict hygiene procedures, and food safety laws (training will be provided).
Duties:
- Providing friendly and efficient service, including taking orders, processing payments, and serving food and drinks.
- Assisting with food and drink preparation, including making coffees and other beverages.
- Maintaining cleanliness in the café, including washing up, clearing tables, and general cleaning tasks.
- Supporting with stock rotation and other kitchen-related tasks.
Training:
- Full training for this role and an induction into the organisation will be given.
- Barista training.
- Level 1 Food Hygiene Certificate training will be paid for by the organisation to fulfil the role.
This is a good opportunity to gain experience in the catering industry within a supportive environment.
Expenses:
All volunteers are entitled to claim reasonably incurred travel expenses, whilst carrying out their role. Lunch is provided from the café.
Boundaries of Role:
To work within WHALE Arts policies and procedure for GDPR and confidentiality.
To apply for the role or for further information please contact WHALE Arts.
Contact Detail:
WHALE Arts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Café Volunteer (Barista) Opportunity
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with WHALE Arts and the Pod Café. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with the team and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role during any informal chats or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your customer service skills by volunteering in similar environments before applying. This hands-on experience will not only boost your confidence but also provide you with real-life examples to discuss when you meet the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or past volunteers at WHALE Arts. They can offer insights into the role and the café's atmosphere, which can be invaluable when you're trying to make a good impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your interest in food and community during your interactions. Sharing personal stories or experiences related to these topics can help you stand out as a passionate candidate who truly cares about the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Café Volunteer (Barista) Opportunity
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Community Café Volunteer position. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your customer service experience, communication skills, and any previous volunteering or barista experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your interest in community work. Explain why you want to volunteer at WHALE Arts and how you can contribute to the café's welcoming atmosphere.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at WHALE Arts
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Make sure to express your excitement about the role and the community café. Share why you want to volunteer and how you can contribute to creating a warm, welcoming space for everyone.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Discuss any previous experience you have in customer service, food preparation, or working with the public. Even if it's informal, showing that you have the right skills will make you stand out.
✨Demonstrate Good Communication
Since this role involves interacting with customers, showcase your communication skills during the interview. Practice active listening and be ready to answer questions clearly and confidently.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the café and its community impact. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand more about what will be expected of you as a volunteer.
