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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook a daily changing menu for our school community.
- Company: Join Ark Putney Academy, a vibrant school committed to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy tailored professional development, gym discounts, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that believes in every student's potential and fosters a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy kitchens and professional catering qualifications are preferred.
- Other info: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early!
About The Role
We are seeking to appoint an Academy Cook to join us as soon as possible. Your responsibilities will include preparing and cooking a daily changing menu (breakfast and lunch) to serve our diverse school community. This role encompasses all aspects of food preparation, food service, kitchen hygiene, and other duties related to the operation of the kitchen and food service.
You will have:
- Experience working in a busy kitchen
- Experience catering in large quantities within a school setting (desirable)
- Professional catering qualifications
- A professional outlook, attention to detail, ability to multitask, and meet deadlines
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and use own initiative
- A genuine passion for and belief in the potential of every student
If you share our commitment to excellence, we want to hear from you!
For inquiries or to discuss this opportunity, please contact Julie Rickard at j.rickard@arkputneyacademy.org.
Benefits:
- Tailored professional development based on your needs and department goals
- Recognition and rewards for effort, supporting staff wellbeing
- Salaries 2.5% above the main pay scale
- Generous pension scheme
- Access to Ark rewards scheme, offering savings at over 3,000 retailers
- Interest-free loans up to £5,000 for season tickets or bicycles
- Gym discounts up to 40%
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support
Learn more about the benefits of working for Ark here
About Us
Ark Putney Academy, part of the Ark network, opened in September 2012 in the London Borough of Wandsworth. We are a mixed school with 790 students from Year 7 to Sixth Form.
In our 2022 OFSTED inspection, we were rated \’Good\’ in all categories.
We are committed to inclusive, equitable education, preparing students to be active community members.
Our recent GCSE results place us in the top 20% nationally for progress, reflecting our excellent teaching and dedicated staff.
Visit arkputney.org/jobs to learn more about us and see current vacancies.
Diversity and inclusion:
We strive to build a diverse and inclusive organization where everyone can thrive. For more about Ark’s diversity commitments, please click here.
Safeguarding statement:
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All employees must undertake an enhanced DBS check and disclose any relevant criminal history. Disclosure will not necessarily disqualify an applicant.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the role may close early depending on response. We encourage early applications.
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Academy Cook employer: Ark Schools
Contact Detail:
Ark Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Academy Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs and preferences of a school community. Understanding how to cater for diverse tastes and dietary restrictions can set you apart as a candidate who truly cares about the students' wellbeing.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your ability to work under pressure by sharing examples from your previous kitchen experience. Highlighting your multitasking skills and how you've successfully managed busy service times will demonstrate your readiness for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former staff at Ark Putney Academy through professional networking platforms. Gaining insights into their experiences can help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your passion for education and how it relates to your cooking. Being able to articulate why you believe in the potential of every student will resonate well with the academy's values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Academy Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in busy kitchens and any professional catering qualifications you possess. Emphasise your ability to cater for large quantities, especially in a school setting.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and your commitment to providing excellent service to students. Mention specific examples of how you've worked collaboratively in a team and met deadlines in previous roles.
Highlight Your Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills related to kitchen hygiene, food preparation, and multitasking. Use bullet points for clarity and ensure you demonstrate your attention to detail.
Express Your Commitment to Education: Convey your belief in the potential of every student and your dedication to contributing positively to their school experience. This will resonate well with the values of Ark Putney Academy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ark Schools
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in a busy kitchen and highlight specific examples of how you've successfully managed food preparation and service. If possible, bring along a portfolio or photos of dishes you've created.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since the role requires collaboration, be ready to share experiences where you worked effectively as part of a team. Discuss how you contribute to a positive kitchen environment and support your colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Passion for Education
Express your genuine interest in working within a school setting and your belief in the potential of every student. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to nurturing young minds through food.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific kitchen scenarios, such as managing dietary restrictions or creating a balanced menu. Think through your responses in advance to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
