Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Catering team to support food preparation, cooking, and customer service.
- Company: Bournemouth & Poole College, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Generous leave, discount schemes, and a welcoming environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for personal growth and career development.
- Why this job: Make a difference while gaining valuable experience in a vibrant setting.
- Qualifications: Level 2 English and Maths, food hygiene certificate preferred.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 14 £ per hour.
We are currently looking for two General Assistants to join our Catering team on a part-time, term-time-only basis. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a supportive, professional environment with excellent benefits and strong work-life balance. You will be employed through Southern Educational Professional Services Ltd, a subsidiary of Bournemouth & Poole College.
About the Role
As a General Assistant, you will provide essential catering support across our cafeteria services. Your role will involve food preparation, cooking, serving, and ensuring high standards of cleanliness, safety, and customer service.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing dining and service areas for daily service
- Assisting with food preparation, cooking, and service
- Receiving, checking, storing, and rotating stock
- Monitoring food safety standards, including temperature records
- Supporting hospitality catering and transportation as required
- Cleaning catering areas and vending machines to regulated standards
- Processing sales accurately and delivering excellent customer service
- Reporting equipment or premises issues to the Unit Supervisor
- Attending mandatory training sessions
- Covering other catering locations when required (e.g. our campuses at Bournemouth or Tower Park)
About You
You'll be reliable, customer-focused, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. Ideally, you will have:
- Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths (GCSE or equivalent)
- A food hygiene certificate or NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation & Cooking (or equivalent experience)
- Experience with food preparation and cooking (domestic or commercial)
- Strong customer care skills
- Knowledge of food safety, allergens, and food intolerance issues
- Good communication skills and a positive attitude
- An affinity for working with young adults
- The ability to work under pressure and adapt to change
Why Join Us?
We offer an excellent benefits package, including:
- 27.5 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing to 30.5 days after 5 years' service)
- Up to 4 additional days' leave during the Winter closure period
- Access to discount schemes at multiple retailers
- NEST Pension Scheme enrolment
- A welcoming, diverse, and inclusive workplace where your contribution truly matters
Working at Bournemouth and Poole College
More than just a job. At Bournemouth & Poole College, we are passionate about turning potential into professionals. We are the largest college in the area and a vital engine for the local economy, educating over 9,000 learners and partnering with over 1,000 employers to bridge the gap between local talent and real futures.
A proud culture. We know that if we want our students to succeed, we have to start by looking after our people. We work hard to create an environment where you feel trusted and valued rather than just employed.
A place to grow and belong. We are committed to a workplace that is genuinely inclusive, where everyone is inspired to contribute and succeed. You will find a vibrant, rewarding environment that celebrates ambition and success in equal measures.
To get a better feel for life at the College and explore our full range of benefits, visit our Work With Us page.
Armed Forces Covenant
As proud Armed Forces Covenant signatories, we value the skills and experience veterans, reservists and military families, and encourage them to consider a career with us.
Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share in this commitment. The successful will be required to undertake appropriate safeguarding checks which includes an enhanced DBS check as well as providing proof of the right to work in the UK.
We encourage early applications, as we may close the vacancy once we receive a sufficient number of strong applications.
General Catering Assistant in Poole employer: Bournemouth and Poole College
Contact Detail:
Bournemouth and Poole College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Catering Assistant in Poole
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Bournemouth & Poole College. Understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or family member. Focus on how your skills in food preparation and customer service can benefit the catering team. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s a catering role, looking smart and professional can make a great first impression. It shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent the college well.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace General Catering Assistant in Poole
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences match the role of a General Catering Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our supportive environment!
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills: Since this role involves a lot of interaction with customers, let us know about your previous experiences in customer service. Share specific examples that demonstrate your strong communication skills and positive attitude.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any qualifications like a food hygiene certificate or experience in food preparation, make sure to mention them! We love seeing candidates who are prepared and knowledgeable about food safety standards.
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 ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity with us at Bournemouth & Poole College.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth and Poole College
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a General Catering Assistant. Familiarise yourself with tasks like food preparation, cooking, and customer service. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's from previous jobs or even domestic cooking. If you have a food hygiene certificate or qualifications in food preparation, mention them! This shows you're serious about food safety and quality.
✨Be Customer-Focused
Since this role involves a lot of interaction with customers, be prepared to discuss how you handle customer service situations. Share examples of how you've provided excellent service in the past, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Ask Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team, the work environment, or training opportunities. This shows your interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.