Catering Assistant

About the Role

We are looking for a Catering Assistant to join our friendly and hardworking team at MEA Central. This is a permanent part‑time post working either 16 hours (11.15 am–2.30 pm) or 10 hours (12.30 pm–2.30 pm) per week, term time only plus 5 INSET days.

• Provide an efficient and effective catering service.
• Prepare and serve food, set up and clean dining areas, and maintain high standards of food hygiene and safety.
• Prepare food, make sandwiches and operate tills.
• Assist with the setting up and serving of meals.
• Clean kitchen equipment and dining furniture.
• Ensure compliance with Food Hygiene and COSHH regulations.
• Provide excellent customer service to students and staff.
• Support equal opportunities and inclusivity in our workplace.

Success Profile

• Experience in food preparation and service (school or catering experience desirable).
• Reliability, enthusiasm and a strong team spirit.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work efficiently while maintaining high hygiene standards.

Salary and Working Hours

Starting salary is £6,093 (10 hours) or £9,749 (16 hours) pro rata; full time equivalent is £24,796 Grade 2.

Benefits

• High quality CPD for all roles.
• Bupa Level 1 Health Plan – annual cash‑back allowance for everyday healthcare expenses.
• Generous pension contribution – over 26 % for teachers and over 17 % for support staff.
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days with 5 years\’ service.
• Cycle scheme – save up to 39 % on a bike and accessories, bonus Strava for free.
• Employee Assistance Programme – free counselling and 24/7 helplines.
• Credit Union – regular savings, Christmas saving scheme and access to affordable loans.
• Flexible working options – we are happy to consider flexible arrangements where possible.
• Mental Health First Aid available in every school.
• Blue Light Card – discounts on holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones and more.
• bYond cashback card – spend smarter with a prepaid cashback card for everyday purchases.

Safeguarding Commitment

All schools within the Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and all staff share this commitment. Specific safeguarding responsibilities are detailed in the attached job description.

Equality Statement

Prospere Learning Trust values diversity and welcomes applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation.

Application Information

Please apply online. CVs are not accepted. Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early. If you meet the essential criteria, follow the online application process to be considered.

Contact

For application support please contact us on 0161 527 7953 or email jobs@prospere.org.uk.