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- Tasks: Prepare and cook nutritious meals for up to 40 amazing people at our Day Centre.
- Company: Join Age UK Bournemouth, a welcoming and inclusive organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Enjoy a friendly environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Cook delicious meals while supporting older people in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking for groups, food safety knowledge, and a team player attitude.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 15000 £ per year.
We are looking for a reliable person to come and cook for some amazing people! We run a Day Centre for older people in Charminster - Bournemouth, and provide them with a traditional 'home cooked' meal. The hours of work are 11 hours per week, 9am - 2.30pm Mondays and Wednesdays.
MAIN TASKS
- To prepare and cook a nutritious two-course meal for up to 40 people per day. This will be in discussion with the Day Centre Manager.
- To plan meals that meet a variety of dietary requirements.
- To provide an alternative to the main lunch, if required, to meet individual dietary needs.
- To ensure that meals are varied regularly and cost effective. These must be in line with the budget (overseen by the Day Centre Manager), and planned monthly in advance.
- To ensure all washing up and clearing up is completed and ensure that the kitchen is left clean and tidy at the end of the day.
- On a weekly basis, ensure the kitchen and all equipment are thoroughly cleaned and ready for use by others.
- To undertake all shopping for the Centre, within budget (online shop order).
- To ensure that stock is rotated and maintained within the Centre to limit waste.
- To work with volunteers, as and when required.
- Complete all relevant documentation in line with the food hygiene legislation.
- To work with a volunteer / kitchen assistant and allocate duties, as provided by the Day Centre Manager.
- To assist with any other duties delegated by the Day Centre Manager.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Experience of preparing and cooking meals for larger groups (up to 40)
- Experience of working in a busy kitchen
- Experience of food safety and Hygiene Protocols
- Team Player
- Flexibility
- Good time keeping
- Reliable & honest
- Willingness to undertake training
- Understanding the needs of older people
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above); if previous certificate has expired, we can assist with obtaining an up-to-date certificate.
- Ideally, experience of stock control and food ordering
Age UK Bournemouth, Poole & East Dorset values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination or harassment and where individuals of all backgrounds, identities and abilities feel valued, respected and empowered.
Cook in Bournemouth employer: Age UK Bournemouth, Poole & East Dorset
Contact Detail:
Age UK Bournemouth, Poole & East Dorset Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Bournemouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Day Centre and its vibe! Visit if you can, chat with staff or volunteers, and understand what they’re all about. This will help you tailor your approach and show them you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your cooking skills! If you can, bring a sample of your cooking to share during your interview or a trial shift. Nothing beats tasting your food to convince them you’re the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss how you handle dietary needs and meal planning. They want someone who can think on their feet, so come prepared with examples of how you’ve catered for different dietary requirements in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When you're writing your application, let us know why you love cooking! Share any experiences you've had preparing meals for larger groups, especially if you've worked with older people before. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
Highlight Your Team Spirit: Since we work closely with volunteers and other team members, it's important to show that you're a team player. Mention any past experiences where you've collaborated with others in a kitchen setting or any roles that required teamwork.
Be Clear About Your Experience: Make sure to detail your experience with food safety and hygiene protocols. If you have a Food Hygiene Certificate, mention it! If not, don’t worry – just let us know that you're willing to get one, and we can help you out.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Age UK Bournemouth, Poole & East Dorset
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with common ingredients and dietary requirements that older people might have. Be ready to discuss how you can adapt meals to cater for various needs, showing that you understand the importance of nutrition and taste.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've cooked for large groups. Highlight any specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, especially in a busy kitchen environment. This will demonstrate your reliability and ability to handle pressure.
✨Plan a Sample Menu
Come prepared with a sample two-course menu that meets dietary needs and is cost-effective. This shows initiative and gives you a chance to showcase your creativity while aligning with the Day Centre's mission of providing nutritious meals.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Be ready to discuss how you work with others, especially volunteers. Share examples of how you've allocated tasks or collaborated in a kitchen setting. This will highlight your team player attitude, which is crucial for this role.