At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our HR team and gain hands-on experience while studying for a degree.
- Company: Caterlink, the leading catering specialist in the education sector.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive discounts and support for your development.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with a focus on inclusivity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Kick-start your career in HR with real-world experience and a degree.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent, plus GCSEs in English and Maths.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For 25 years, the Company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff at Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and Colleges across the UK. The company caters for more than 2,000,000 meals a week. Our “Fresh Food Policy” is the foundation of our success and growth in the market coupled with a desire to truly deliver on the promises we make to our clients and support our site‑based teams.
Ready to kick‑start your future after school and earn a degree while you work? Are you interested in a career in HR and live near Reading Berkshire? Then you will want to hear more about this fantastic job opportunity!
We are offering you the opportunity of a Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship and the opportunity to join our HR team, supporting your development while you combine hands‑on experience with blended study through our Apprenticeship provider. We have a skilled team that are eager to share their knowledge and support you throughout your Apprenticeship. You will gain vital experience to start with from our catering operations to health and safety, with a longer term view of developing your HR and people skills with our own HR team. You will have one dedicated day specifically for studying with our University Apprenticeship provider.
You will have the opportunity to develop your communication, presentation and negotiation skills with all stakeholders from varying backgrounds and cultures. Our focus is on pleasing our clients and customers and keeping our people safe, happy and engaged. Please note a full driving licence and access to your own car is required for this role as travelling will be required (for which you will be reimbursed travel expenses).
Shortlisted candidates will first be invited to an initial telephone call to discuss the role, your interests and to answer any questions you may have. Following this, successful applicants will be invited to an interview at our Reading office which will include a short presentation. The aim is to understand your strengths, how you work with others, and to ensure the role and programme are the right fit for you.
Caterlink is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be obtained for this role. Caterlink is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Caterlink strives to always provide a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all our teams where every individual is treated with respect, integrity and has the opportunity to grow and be treated equally and with fairness at all times.
Qualifications
- You must have two subjects at GCE A-level or equivalent, plus three GCSEs at grade A*-C/9-4; OR a completed recognised Access Programme or equivalent.
- You must have proficiency in the English language if any prior learning has not previously been taught in English (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 80 or equivalent).
- You must be a UK/EU/EAA resident for at least three years prior to starting the apprenticeship.
- You must be able to evidence GCSE English and Maths passes at grade A*-C/9-4 or commit to completing Functional Skills Level 2, in addition to the programme. If required, this is provided at no additional cost.
- We want you to have a genuine interest and passion for food and people.
- We want you to have a genuine interest in learning.
- You should be flexible and have great communication/customer service skills.
- We would love you to be proactive with problem solving skills and using your own initiative.
- You will need to be dedicated and committed to the management programme from the end of September 2026, completing the apprenticeship over a period of 30 months.
Benefits
With Caterlink you have the opportunity to a blended learning programme that can include formal qualifications including Apprenticeships, classroom training, eLearning and on the job training to support and encourage your development and enable you to be the best you can be. Everyone who joins us is provided with an induction where you learn more about us and enable them to be the best they can be. We invest in development opportunities and are always looking to recruit, train and retain the best people for our own future talent and your own future development.
We offer you access to our Employee Discount Platform where you can make great savings at supermarkets, cinema, restaurants as well as holiday discounts, family days out and many more! Our Employee Assistance Program and Virtual GP benefits are there for you and your family to use free of charge at any time.
Business Management Degree Apprenticeship - HR in Reading employer: Cater Link Limited
Cater Link Limited is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. As a Weekend School Chef in Bolton, you'll enjoy flexible hours, competitive benefits including discounts and development opportunities, all while making a meaningful impact on students' dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Management Degree Apprenticeship - HR in Reading
✨Get Involved with Local HR Events
Look for local HR events, workshops, or networking evenings in your area. Getting involved in these communities is a fab way to meet professionals already in the field, learn from their experiences, and even get your name out there—who knows, they might even have leads on apprenticeships!
✨Utilise University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university's career services—they're your best buddy for finding apprenticeship opportunities. They often have insider connections with companies looking to recruit apprentices, so be sure to get your name on their radar!
✨Use Social Media Wisely
Follow organisations you're interested in on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, and engage with their posts. This helps you stay updated on their apprenticeship opportunities and shows your interest in the company's culture—plus, you might even catch the eye of hiring managers!
✨Show Off Your HR Knowledge
Create a blog or share posts around HR topics that interest you. This not only showcases your knowledge and passion but can also serve as a portfolio piece that sets you apart from other candidates. Companies are always looking for individuals who take initiative and have an informed perspective!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Management Degree Apprenticeship - HR in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In the world of human resources, it's all about how well you can connect with others. When you're crafting your CV and cover letter, highlight any experiences you've had working in teams, resolving conflicts, or helping others—this is what HR is all about! Include any relevant voluntary work or part-time jobs that showcase your knack for communication and support.
Get Familiar with HR Tools:Even as an apprentice, it helps to show that you’ve got a grasp on the tools of the trade. Mention any experience you have with HR software, databases, or even just cool initiatives you've learned about in school. This can really set you apart and show that you're eager to dive into the HR world at Cater Link Limited.
Explain Your Motivation:As an apprenticeship role, employers want to see your passion and willingness to learn. Use your cover letter to unpack why HR excites you and what you hope to gain from the apprenticeship with Cater Link Limited. Let your enthusiasm shine through—it makes a huge difference!
Tailor Your Application for Cater Link Limited:Do some digging on Cater Link Limited and reflect that in your application. Mention specific aspects of their HR practices or company values that resonate with you. This personal touch shows that you genuinely want to be part of their team and not just any HR role. Remember, we’re here to help you shine, so make sure to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cater Link Limited
✨Get Familiar with HR Basics
As we're diving into an apprenticeship in human resources, make sure you grasp key HR concepts like recruitment processes, employee relations, and workplace legislation. Being able to discuss these topics will show your understanding and enthusiasm for the field, particularly when chatting with Cater Link Limited.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
In HR, it's all about managing relationships. Prep some examples from school or previous work where you've successfully dealt with conflicts or collaborated with others. This will highlight your interpersonal skills, which are crucial for an apprenticeship at Cater Link Limited.
✨Research Common HR Tools
Get to know some HR software and tools like Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) or performance management systems that are commonly used in the industry. Familiarity with these will give you an edge in the interview, demonstrating your readiness to jump into the role at Cater Link Limited.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
During your interview, make it clear how excited you are about the learning opportunities within this apprenticeship. Share why you chose this pathway with Cater Link Limited and what aspects of HR you're most keen to explore – this will resonate well with interviewers looking for motivated candidates.
