At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious meals while ensuring food hygiene standards.
- Company: Reputable care home known for high standards and a supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 28 days holiday, training opportunities, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Join a caring environment where your cooking makes a difference to residents' lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in a professional kitchen and a passion for food.
- Other info: Enjoy a positive culture with recognition events and wellbeing support.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
A well-regarded care home in the Basingstoke area is looking for a part-time Cook to join its established team. The home has a strong reputation for high standards of care, excellent inspection results and a warm, supportive working environment. Many staff have been with the service for several years, which reflects the positive culture and commitment to good practice.
The role is for 24 hours per week, including alternate weekends. Weekend shifts run from 7am to 2pm, with the remaining hours worked during the week. The starting rate of pay is £14.50 per hour.
Benefits include:
- 28 days holiday (pro rata)
- Enhanced pay for Bank Holidays
- Full induction and ongoing training
- Pension scheme
- NVQ training opportunities
- Refer-a-Friend scheme
- Paid breaks
- Free uniform
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme with wellbeing support and discounts
- Staff recognition schemes and regular appreciation events
- Access to a Blue Light Discount Card
Main duties:
- Preparing and cooking meals in line with food hygiene standards
- Supporting menu planning and contributing ideas for meals
- Considering residents' dietary needs and preferences
- Ensuring correct storage and rotation of food, especially perishable items
- Disposing of waste safely
- Assisting with serving meals
- Carrying out other reasonable duties as required
Skills and experience:
- Previous experience working in a professional kitchen
- Good level of written and spoken English
- Food hygiene certificate (or willingness to obtain one)
This role is subject to a DBS check.
Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.
Assistant Cook in Basingstoke employer: Blue Arrow
Contact Detail:
Blue Arrow Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook in Basingstoke
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the care home before your interview! Research their values and culture, and think about how your cooking style aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills and be ready to showcase them! If you get the chance, bring a dish that reflects your creativity and ability to cater to dietary needs. It’s a great way to show off your passion for food and care.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees if you can! They can give you insider tips on what the team values most and what it’s like to work there. Plus, a referral from a staff member can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, we’re always here to support you throughout the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Cook in Basingstoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When writing your application, let us know why you love cooking and how it connects to the role. Share any experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for preparing meals and catering to dietary needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous kitchen experience you have. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Assistant Cook position, so don’t hold back on showcasing your culinary journey!
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate a straightforward application! Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly and makes your application stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your details and can get back to you promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Arrow
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with common ingredients and cooking techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss your previous experience in a professional kitchen, highlighting specific dishes you've prepared and how you ensured food hygiene standards.
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Let your enthusiasm for cooking shine through during the interview. Share stories about your favourite meals to prepare and how you adapt recipes to meet dietary needs. This will demonstrate your creativity and commitment to providing excellent care.
✨Understand the Care Home Environment
Research the care home’s values and culture. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their positive environment and support residents' dietary preferences. Showing that you understand the importance of nutrition in care settings will set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer about the team dynamics, menu planning process, or training opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment is the right fit for you.