At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals and create eye-catching displays for students.
- Company: Join Chartwells, a leading provider of catering services in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy part-time hours, career progression, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while working in a fun, dynamic team.
- Qualifications: A positive attitude and passion for customer service are essential; experience is a bonus.
- Other info: This role is contracted for 43 weeks per year with a focus on safety and hygiene.
We're currently recruiting a dedicated School Cook to help ensure the smooth running of the operations in Chartwells on a part time basis, contracted to 25 hours per week. As a School Cook, you will use your skills to maintain a high standard of quality work. In return, you will have the chance to progress your career with a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.
Please note: This role is contracted to 43 weeks per year.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
- Crafting eye-catching food and counter displays that draw customers in
- Proudly representing Chartwells and embodying our positive brand image
- Handling transactions with ease and operating the cash register efficiently
- Upholding the highest standards of Food Handling & Hygiene
- Ensuring a safe and healthy work environment by adhering to Health & Safety regulations
Our ideal School Cook will:
- Bring a positive, can-do attitude to everything you do
- Show genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer service
- Excel as a supportive and collaborative team player
- Embrace the excitement of thriving under pressure
- Demonstrate impeccable time management and reliability
- Prioritise safety in every task you undertake
- Previous experience in a similar catering role is a bonus, but your enthusiasm is what truly matters
Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is the leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over a quarter of a century, Chartwells has been focusing on helping those in education to build strong bodies, sharp minds and lead long healthy lives. Every week, Chartwells serves millions of nutritious and delicious meals to pupils and students in primary and secondary schools, academies, independent schools, colleges, and universities across the UK. Chartwells is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all employees to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to successfully completing pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure and a Children's Barred List check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and we ask applicants to declare all previous convictions and cautions in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
School Cook employer: Chartwells
Contact Detail:
Chartwells Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chartwells' values and mission. Understanding their commitment to quality food and customer service will help you align your approach during the interview, showcasing how your personal values resonate with theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Highlight specific examples where you've thrived under pressure, as this role requires a positive attitude and the ability to manage time effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for food and customer service. Be ready to share your ideas on how to create appealing food displays and enhance the dining experience for students, which is a key part of the School Cook role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your understanding of food safety and hygiene standards. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure a safe working environment, as this is crucial in a school setting where health and safety are paramount.
We think you need these skills to ace School Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the School Cook position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what Chartwells is looking for.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in catering or similar roles. Emphasise any achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality food and exceptional customer service.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cooking and working in a school environment. Highlight your positive attitude, teamwork skills, and commitment to safety and hygiene standards, as these are crucial for the role.
Prepare for Pre-Employment Checks: Be ready to provide information for pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure. Familiarise yourself with the safeguarding policies of Chartwells to show your commitment to child welfare during the application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for preparing delicious and high-quality food. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for cooking and how it translates into your work.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As a School Cook, collaboration is key. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've worked effectively in a team environment. Highlight your ability to support colleagues and contribute positively to group dynamics.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Make sure to showcase your understanding of food handling and hygiene standards. Discuss any relevant training or certifications you have, and be ready to explain how you ensure a safe and healthy work environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as working under pressure or dealing with customer feedback. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in challenging circumstances.