At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in delivering high-quality meals and maintain kitchen hygiene in a busy school environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at a leading educational institution focused on student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous pension, and access to exclusive discounts and support services.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while working in a fun, fast-paced kitchen.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy kitchens and a friendly, professional attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
About The Role
We are currently recruiting for a Catering Assistant to join our catering team. You will assist the delivery of a consistent, high-quality meal service in our student canteen and staff/sixth form café. The role will include all aspects of food preparation, food service, kitchen hygiene and other duties associated with the running of the kitchen and café.
The successful candidate will:
- Have experience of working in a busy kitchen
- Have experience of catering in large quantities within a school setting, desirable
- Possess a professional outlook
- Be a team player who can work collaboratively as well as using own initiative
- Be friendly, calm and approachable, even under pressure
- Have a robust awareness of keeping children safe, noticing safeguarding and welfare concerns, and an understanding of how and when to take appropriate action
Benefits
- Salaries 2.5% higher than main pay scale.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Access to Ark rewards - a scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers
- Interest‑free loans - up to £5,000 available for season ticket or to buy a bicycle.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme - providing free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of different support.
Diversity and inclusion:
We aim to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone - staff and students - can do their best work and achieve their full potential. We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger and more effective.
Safeguarding statement:
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non‑disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred.
Dynamic School Kitchen Assistant — Join a Busy Team employer: ARK PUTNEY ACADEMY
Join Ark as a Dynamic School Kitchen Assistant and be part of a vibrant team dedicated to providing high-quality meal services in a supportive school environment. With competitive salaries, generous pension schemes, and access to a wide range of employee benefits, including interest-free loans and an Employee Assistance Programme, Ark fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, ensuring every staff member can thrive and grow in their role. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a rewarding career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Dynamic School Kitchen Assistant — Join a Busy Team
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen team before you apply! If you can, pop by and chat with current staff. This shows your enthusiasm and gives you a feel for the vibe of the place.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your experience! When you get the chance to speak with the hiring team, highlight your past roles in busy kitchens. Share specific examples of how you handled pressure and worked as part of a team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your skills! If you're invited for an interview, they might ask you to show how you prepare food or maintain hygiene standards. Brush up on these skills so you can impress them on the spot.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of all applicants easily.
We think you need these skills to ace Dynamic School Kitchen Assistant — Join a Busy Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any experience you've got in busy kitchens or catering for large groups. We want to see how your background fits with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Be Professional and Approachable:In your application, let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone who’s friendly and calm under pressure, so share examples that show you can keep it cool while getting the job done.
Understand Our Values:Familiarise yourself with our commitment to safeguarding and diversity. Mentioning these in your application shows us you’re on the same page and care about creating a safe and inclusive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at ARK PUTNEY ACADEMY
✨Know Your Kitchen Basics
Brush up on your food preparation skills and kitchen hygiene practices. Be ready to discuss your experience in a busy kitchen and how you handle food service under pressure. This will show that you’re not just a team player, but also someone who knows their way around the kitchen.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
During the interview, highlight examples of how you've worked collaboratively in previous roles. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to support your colleagues and contribute positively to a team environment. This is key for a role where teamwork is essential.
✨Be Approachable and Friendly
Since you'll be interacting with students and staff, it’s important to convey your friendly and calm nature. Practice answering questions with a smile and maintain an approachable demeanour throughout the interview. This will help the interviewers see you as a great fit for their team.
✨Understand Safeguarding
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding policies and why they are crucial in a school setting. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle any concerns regarding student welfare. Showing that you take this responsibility seriously will set you apart from other candidates.
