At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing, cooking, and serving meals for pupils and staff.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at Dorothy Goodman School.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and flexible hours.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow within a caring and nurturing school environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Excellent communication skills and a positive, can-do attitude.
The predicted salary is between 7061 - 7171 £ per year.
11.15 - 1.15pm term time including 3 days during school closure periods - 12.5 hours per week
To Start: TBC
Salary - Grade 2-4 dependent on experience. The actual pro‑rata salary is £7,061 - £7,171 (Full time equivalent is £24,423 - £24,804).
Dorothy Goodman School is looking to recruit a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant to join our catering team to assist in the preparation, cooking, cleaning and serving of lunch to our pupils and staff. This is an exciting opportunity to join our vibrant school community, catering to the needs of pupils in a special school. The school is part of the Open Thinking Partnership (OTP). Working within our values of Respect, Nurture and Independence, we provide experiences for children and young people which develop their personal qualities, learning and engagement skills.
What we need from you:
- Excellent communication skills, welcoming and personable
- Professional approach
- Ability to work within a supportive team environment
- Empathy with young people with additional needs
- Resilient
- Flexible with a ‘can do’ attitude
- Able to use initiative
The successful candidate will be subject to RTW and an enhanced DBS check.
For further information please contact: HR Admin on 01455 634582 or hradmin@openthinkingpartnership.co.uk
Closing Date: Sunday 21st June 2026
Interviews: w/c 22nd June 2026
Please note that if you haven’t heard by TBC, please assume that on this occasion your application has been unsuccessful.
The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to a check being carried out at an Enhanced level by the Disclosure and Barring Service regarding any previous criminal record.
Dorothy Goodman School shares a commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people. Our commitment is underpinned by robust processes and procedures that seek to maximise opportunity, minimise risk and continuously promote a culture that embraces the ethos of safeguarding amongst our workforce.
Kitchen/Catering Assistant employer: Dorothy Goodman School Hinckley
Dorothy Goodman School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with additional needs. With a commitment to professional development and a vibrant school community, employees enjoy flexible working hours during term time and school closure periods, fostering a healthy work-life balance. Join us in our mission to respect, nurture, and promote independence among our pupils while being part of a dedicated team that values empathy and collaboration.
Contact Details:
Dorothy Goodman School Hinckley Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen/Catering Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with friends, family, or even acquaintances who work in schools or catering. They might know of openings that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! Volunteer at local schools or community kitchens to gain experience and show your commitment. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people in the industry and learn the ropes.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to schools or catering companies you’re interested in. A friendly email expressing your interest can put you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got all the latest job listings, and applying directly shows you’re serious about joining our team. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen/Catering Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about being part of our vibrant school community and catering team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description. We’re looking for excellent communication skills and a professional approach, so don’t be shy about showcasing these!
Be Personable:Since we value a welcoming and personable attitude, try to convey your friendly nature in your written application. Use a warm tone and share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with young people.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you pay attention to detail and care about making a good impression. Remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dorothy Goodman School Hinckley
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Kitchen/Catering Assistant. Understand the importance of preparing, cooking, and serving meals, especially in a school environment. This will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute to the team.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key, think of examples where you've effectively interacted with others. Be ready to discuss how you can create a welcoming atmosphere for pupils and staff, as well as how you can work collaboratively within a team.
✨Emphasise Empathy and Resilience
Prepare to talk about your experiences working with young people, particularly those with additional needs. Highlight your ability to be patient and understanding, and share any relevant stories that showcase your resilience and 'can do' attitude.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the school's values or the catering team's approach. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment aligns with your own values of respect and nurture.
