At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing and serving meals while ensuring a clean kitchen environment.
- Company: Birch Hill Primary School, a vibrant community school dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Generous leave, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make lunchtime enjoyable for pupils.
- Qualifications: Team player with good communication skills; catering experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Birch Hill Primary School is seeking a reliable, enthusiastic and hardworking catering assistant to join our catering team to cover a maternity leave. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a busy school environment and is committed to providing a high-quality catering service for our pupils and colleagues.
The successful candidate will support the preparation and serving of meals, help maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment and contribute to a positive lunchtime experience for all pupils.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has a positive and flexible approach to work
- Works well as part of a team
- Has good communication and interpersonal skills
- Can work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
- Understands the importance of hygiene, food safety and health and safety requirements
- Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the preparation and serving of food and drinks
- Set up and clear away dining areas
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and appropriately
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene within the kitchen and dining areas
- Wash utensils, crockery and kitchen equipment
- Support stock rotation and storage procedures
- Follow food hygiene, allergen and health and safety procedures at all times
- Provide a friendly and welcoming service to pupils, colleagues and visitors
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be dependable, organised and able to work effectively within a team. Previous catering or kitchen experience would be beneficial, although training will be provided for the right candidate. A commitment to delivering a high-quality service and supporting the wider school community is essential.
Birch Hill Primary School (BHP) is a two-form entry community school serving the Birch Hill and Hanworth areas of Bracknell Forest. In addition to the main school, we offer a nursery and a specialist resource provision for children with ASD and MLD.
Benefits of Working with Maiden Erlegh Trust
- Staff wellbeing and professional development: wide range of opportunities and schemes
- Pension Scheme: generous employer contributions through the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme
- Annual Leave: generous entitlement, increasing with length of service
- ME Day: one additional day’s leave each year for a significant personal event
- Professional Development: extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities
- Hybrid Working: flexible working arrangements for eligible roles
- Perkbox: discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points
- Wellbeing and Health: free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support and discount schemes
- Mental Health First Aid Support
- Recognition and Community: celebrating achievements and milestones across the Trust
- Employee Referral Scheme
Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Catering Assistant employer: Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery
Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery is an excellent employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on students' lives. With a strong focus on professional development and collaboration, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive within a supportive team dedicated to fostering positive relationships and engagement in learning.
Contact Details:
Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery
Don't be shy about reaching out to Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birch Hill Primary School and Nursery
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
