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- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals that excite students and staff in schools.
- Company: Aspens Services, a leading contract caterer focused on school food experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a great work-life balance with no late nights or weekends.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real difference in children's lives through food.
- Qualifications: Experience with fresh ingredients and a Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate preferred.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and professional development in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Aspens Services is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don’t just serve meals - we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest high-street food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen. Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.
As a Cook in one of our schools, you will be bringing our menus to life - creating healthy, nutritious and delicious food that’s fun for students and staff alike. We’re looking for someone with the originality and drive to focus on the highest quality food and service, making our school meals the absolute best in the area.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Creative Menu Execution: Preparing our provided menus using your excellent craft skills.
- Safety Champion: Ensuring strict compliance with Food Hygiene, Allergen, and Health & Safety standards.
- Hospitality Production: Executing high-quality hospitality requests for clients and special events.
- Building Connections: Developing strong relationships with both our school clients and the students you serve.
- Service with a Smile: Providing a friendly and polite customer service experience for everyone.
We need someone who shares our deep passion for delivering exceptional food and service to our schools, along with the following skills and experience:
- Some knowledge of education catering, and proven experience working with fresh ingredients and excellent craft skills.
- Excellent working knowledge of health and safety practices and a Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate (though we offer further training!).
- You’re a self-motivated person who uses your initiative, has a deep desire to learn and loves motivating others.
Why Join the Aspens Family?
- Great Work-Life Balance: You’ll work Monday to Friday during school term time - that means no late nights, no weekends and no working at Christmas!
- 27.5 hours per week, 38 weeks per year - what will you do with all that time off?
- £15.50 - £17 per hour.
- Career Growth and Development: Join a fast-growing, ambitious company. We have no ceiling in terms of where you can take your career in catering.
- Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses to help you constantly develop your skills.
Ready to start a rewarding career with amazing hours? Apply today!
Please note: All staff must share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children / young people. The company will seek an enhanced DBS disclosure.
Cook employer: Aspens Services
Contact Detail:
Aspens Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, dive into Aspens Services' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to quality food and service will help you connect your passion for cooking with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Bring some ideas for fun and nutritious menu items to the table during your interview. This not only demonstrates your culinary skills but also shows that you're excited about making school meals special.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about safety! Brush up on your knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you take your role seriously and care about the well-being of the students.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your people skills! Building connections with students and staff is key in this role. Share examples of how you've created positive experiences in previous jobs to demonstrate your friendly approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking and creating delicious meals shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for making food that excites students and staff alike!
Highlight Your Craft Skills: Make sure to mention any relevant experience you have with fresh ingredients and menu execution. We’re looking for someone who can bring our menus to life, so showcase your culinary skills in your application!
Emphasise Safety and Hygiene Knowledge: Since we take food safety seriously, be sure to include your knowledge of health and safety practices. If you have a Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate, mention it! It shows us you’re ready to keep our kitchens safe.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join the Aspens family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspens Services
✨Know Your Menus
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the menus that Aspens Services offers. Think about how you can bring creativity to these dishes and be ready to discuss your ideas. This shows your passion for food and your understanding of what they do!
✨Showcase Your Craft Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with fresh ingredients and cooking techniques. Bring examples of your previous work or even a portfolio if you have one. Demonstrating your craft skills will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver high-quality meals.
✨Emphasise Safety and Hygiene
Since health and safety are crucial in this role, brush up on your knowledge of food hygiene practices. Be ready to discuss your Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate and any other relevant training. Showing that you prioritise safety will reassure them that you’re a responsible choice.
✨Connect with the Kids
Aspens Services values building connections with students. Think about ways you can engage with young people through food. Share any past experiences where you’ve created fun food experiences or engaged with children, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
