At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious, nutritious meals for students and staff in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join a values-driven independent school focused on holistic education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, term-time hours, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a historic building with great career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through healthy, tasty food.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Food Safety qualification and experience in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 18 - 18 £ per hour.
Location: London N1 2QH
Salary: From £17.09 per hour (inclusive of holiday pay)
Hours: 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday (9:00am - 3:00pm)
Contract: Term-time only (36.2 weeks per year: 35 weeks term time + 1.2 weeks inset days)
Start Date: September 2026
About the School
An independent, non-selective school in Islington educating children aged 3–14, based in a historic Grade II* listed building. The school follows a Steiner (Waldorf) approach, focusing on holistic education that nurtures the intellectual, creative, and practical development of each child.
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced School Cook to provide a high-quality catering service that supports the wellbeing of pupils and staff. This is an excellent opportunity to join a values-led school community where nutrition, care, and quality food provision are central to school life. Occasional additional hours may be required to meet the needs of the role.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver varied, nutritious menus in line with school food standards
- Prepare and serve high-quality meals for pupils and staff
- Manage suppliers and support cost-effective purchasing
- Maintain stock levels and minimise food waste
- Cater for dietary requirements and ensure allergen information is clearly communicated
- Maintain consistency and high standards in all food provision
- Communicate effectively with staff regarding menus and dietary needs
Health & Safety
- Ensure compliance with all food safety and health & safety legislation
- Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and report faults promptly
- Support maintenance and repair processes with the Facilities Manager
- Record accidents and incidents as required
- Maintain Safe Food Better Business (SFBB) records and procedures
Team & School Community
- Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and the wider school community
- Attend meetings as required
- Contribute positively to the school’s ethos and values
Safeguarding & Compliance
- Adhere to safeguarding, child protection, and health & safety policies
- Maintain confidentiality at all times
- Participate in relevant training such as First Aid and safeguarding
Person Specification
- Level 3 Food Safety qualification (or equivalent)
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths
Experience
- Experience in a busy kitchen or catering environment
- Supervisory or team leadership experience
- Experience in menu planning and stock control
- Experience working in a school or with children (desirable)
Skills & Knowledge
- Strong culinary and food production skills
- Understanding of school catering standards and legislation
- Good organisational and multitasking abilities
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work under pressure
Personal Qualities
- Positive, resilient, and enthusiastic approach
- Strong commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing
- Ability to build positive relationships in a school community
- Respect for confidentiality
- Commitment to the ethos of holistic education
Apply now to join a supportive school community and help provide nourishing meals that enable children to thrive.
School Cook employer: AD TALENT RECRUITMENT
Join our independent school in Islington as a School Cook, where you will be part of a nurturing community dedicated to holistic education. We offer a supportive work environment with a focus on employee wellbeing, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on children's lives through nutritious meal provision. Enjoy a term-time only contract that allows for a healthy work-life balance while working in a historic and inspiring setting.
