At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious food while keeping the dining area clean and welcoming.
- Company: Join Coventry College, a vibrant hub for education and community growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, generous leave, and discounts on travel and beauty treatments.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to excellence and community service.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Looking for organised, enthusiastic individuals with basic food hygiene knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 20987 - 21407 £ per year.
Employer: Coventry College
Location: Coventry, West Midlands
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: £20,987 - £21,407 (£26,166 to £26,690 FTE)
Posted: 13th August 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Job ID: 1569222
About Us
Coventry College is a dynamic Further Education provider at the heart of the city, offering high-quality vocational, technical, and professional education to learners of all ages, from Entry Level to Higher Education. Since forming in 2017, we’ve been committed to helping individuals transform their lives and supporting businesses to grow—strengthening the communities we serve. Our ambition is to help young people and adults to aspire to change their lives and those of their families. Through strong partnerships and a responsive, inclusive curriculum, we strive to deliver excellence in teaching and learning that evolves with industry needs and puts learners and employers in the best position for success. Recent investments in facilities, including electric vehicle tech, construction, and digital skills, ensure we stay at the cutting edge of industry needs.
About the Role
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare the dining area for service, which may include moving and/or setting up furniture and trolleys
- Prepare the service area, hot cupboards and other equipment
- Assist in the preparation, cooking and serving of food and beverages
- Wash dishes, cutlery, tumblers, jugs, serving utensils, containers, tables and all other catering equipment
- Clean catering areas to regulated standards
- Undertake on and off the job training as required by management
- Inform the Unit Manager of any defects in equipment or premises
- There may be a requirement to transfer to and from both catering units (South/North Buildings)
- Undertake any other duties that may be required for the effective operation of the catering establishment.
Who We're Looking For: An organised, enthusiastic individual with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently with an understanding of basic food hygiene, cleanliness and safety awareness.
What we offer:
- Free on-site parking, including pay-as-you-go EV charging spaces
- Excellent pension scheme with defined benefits (LGPS)
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Access to continued professional development and training opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing support
- Employee discount scheme offering savings on retail, travel, and more
- This role is eligible for Blue Light Card (BLC)
- On-site refectory serving a variety of food and drink options
- Discounted hair and beauty treatments at our in-house salon
- Staff recognition and award schemes celebrating your achievements
- A supportive, inclusive working environment
How to Apply: To apply, please complete our online application form, which is designed in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education statutory guidance. Please note that CVs will not be accepted. We do not accept unsolicited agency applications. We will contact preferred agencies if their support is required.
Safeguarding: We are actively committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and any vulnerable groups within the College community. We value our diverse College community and are actively committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of college life and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of our shortlisting process, you will be asked to complete a self-declaration of your criminal record or information which may make you unsuitable to work with children, in addition we carry out an online search to help identify any incidents or issues that have happened, and are publicly available online. The successful applicant will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check.
Catering Assistant employer: Coventry College
Coventry College is an excellent employer for those passionate about childcare and early years education, offering a collaborative and supportive work culture that prioritises professional development. With a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension scheme, and well-being support, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on learners' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering 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 Coventry College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Coventry College
Don't be shy about reaching out to Coventry College 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 Catering 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 Coventry College 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 Coventry College
✨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!