At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our kitchen team by preparing meals and maintaining hygiene standards.
- Company: Join Cornerstone Healthcare, a multi award-winning leader in complex care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a benefits package worth up to £5,000, including overtime pay and discounts.
- Other info: Stable shifts with excellent work-life balance and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while working in a caring environment.
- Qualifications: 6 months kitchen experience and a friendly, team-focused attitude required.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
About The Role
Are you a caring and reliable individual who enjoys supporting others behind the scenes? At Cornerstone Healthcare, we know that excellent care relies on great teamwork and that includes our kitchen team. We’re looking for a dedicated and hardworking Kitchen Assistant to join our award-winning team at Kitnocks House, where your role will help make a real difference every day. Our 63-bed service is made up of four specialised units, each tailored to support residents with complex health conditions. We’re proud to be rated GOOD by the CQC. We welcome individuals who share our values of respect, openness, care, and kindness.
What do you need?
- At least 6 months experience of working in a kitchen environment
- A genuine interest in food preparation and working in a kitchen environment
- A team-focused, can-do attitude with good attention to detail
- A friendly and approachable manner – we’re a close-knit team
- Effective communication skills (both written and verbal)
- A commitment to learn about residents as individuals and to create ideas to improve life for the residents
What hours will you work?
We offer a stable, structured rota to support your work-life balance:
- Week A: Monday, Thursday & Friday (06:45am until 18:15)
- Week B: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday (06:45am until 18:15)
11.5-hour shifts, with a total average of 40.25 hours per week.
What will you be doing?
- Preparing food items and simple meals in line with dietary needs
- Washing up and keeping all kitchen equipment clean and well maintained
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety
- Assisting with stock rotation and general kitchen organisation
- To comply with regulations in respect of Health and Safety at work, COSHH, Environmental Health and Fire Procedures
Why Choose Cornerstone?
Because great care starts with feeling cared for. We offer our Kitchen Assistants a benefits package worth up to £5,000. (T&C's apply)
- Enhanced pay for overtime and bank holidays
- Monthly overtime raffle – win an extra £200 for picking up shifts
- Refer a friend scheme – earn up to £1,000
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Healthcare cash plan worth up to £700 – includes dental, optical and 24/7 mental health support
- Free uniform laundered for you on site ready for your next shift
- Subsidised lunch on site
- Recognition and rewards – vouchers, and long service treats
- Access to the Blue Light Card – over 13,000 discounts
- And much more!
So, if you’re ready to start something meaningful – in a place that truly values you – we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and take the first step towards a career that gives back.
About Us
Cornerstone Healthcare Group are a multi award-winning, sector leader with an innovative approach to complex care. Cornerstone specialise in supporting adults of all ages with complex neurological, physical, and mental health needs. Residents are typically living with neurological degenerative conditions, such as dementia with an underlying mental health condition, and as such are vulnerable and at times prone to challenging behaviours associated with complex conditions. Many have been unable to stay in other settings because their needs have been deemed too high or too challenging. Operating well-established homes in Waterlooville and Curdridge in Hampshire and Mytchett in Surrey, as well as a new state-of-the-art ‘eco’ home in Bristol, the Group has built a reputation for delivering consistently high standards of care, focusing on the individual journey of each resident. At Cornerstone, the expert clinical care skills and approach of the team mean that people with the most complex needs can find a place to call home.
Kitchen Assistant employer: Cornerstone Healthcare Group
At Cornerstone Healthcare Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values both professional growth and a supportive work culture. Located in Waterlooville, our head office offers a collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to develop their skills through continuous learning opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful healthcare initiatives. Join us to be part of a team that prioritises integrity, innovation, and the well-being of our community.
Contact Details:
Cornerstone Healthcare Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen 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 Cornerstone Healthcare Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cornerstone Healthcare Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cornerstone Healthcare Group 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 Kitchen 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 Cornerstone Healthcare Group 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 Cornerstone Healthcare Group
✨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!
