At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious meals for residential groups in a vibrant outdoor setting.
- Company: Join the friendly team at Dukes Barn Outdoor Activity Centre in the stunning Peak District.
- Benefits: Earn £14.63 per hour, enjoy free meals, and benefit from training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with 28 days holiday and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a difference by providing nutritious meals while enjoying a dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: Previous cooking experience and a passion for food hygiene are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 € per year.
Part-Time Cook / Catering Assistant 25 hours per week | Permanent £14.63 per hour + enhanced overtime rate
Dukes Barn Outdoor Activity Centre is a residential outdoor activity centre based in the Peak District near Chatsworth House. We provide outdoor learning experiences, accommodation and residential visits for schools, young people and community groups throughout the year.
We are looking for a reliable, enthusiastic and experienced Cook to join our catering team on a permanent part-time basis. This is an important role within the centre, helping provide nutritious, well-prepared meals for residential groups in a busy and rewarding environment.
The Role
You will be responsible for preparing and serving breakfasts, lunches and evening meals for residential groups averaging around 30 guests, whilst maintaining high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and allergen management on a rotating basis. The role involves working as part of a small team within a varied and practical catering environment.
Typical duties include:
- Preparing and cooking meals for residential groups
- Supporting menu delivery and portion planning
- Maintaining high standards of kitchen cleanliness and food safety
- Managing allergen awareness and dietary requirements
- Assisting with stock rotation and kitchen organisation
- Working flexibly as part of the wider centre team where required
Working Pattern
- 25 hours per week
- 5 shifts per week
- Shifts are typically:
- 7:00am – 12:00pm or
- 2:00pm – 7:00pm
- Working patterns include weekdays and occasional weekends on a rota basis
- Rotas are normally issued 3 - 4 weeks in advance
A flexible approach to working hours is essential due to the nature of residential operations.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has previous cooking or catering experience
- Is organised, dependable and able to work independently
- Understands the importance of food hygiene and allergen management
- Works well within a team environment
- Can remain calm and efficient during busy service periods
Experience within a school, residential, hospitality or care setting would be advantageous, although not essential. A current Food Hygiene and/or Allergy Awareness qualification would be beneficial, but training can be provided for the right candidate.
What We Offer
- £14.63 per hour
- Enhanced overtime rate
- Permanent part-time position
- 28 days holiday including statutory entitlement (pro rata where applicable)
- Free meal on shift
- Free onsite parking
- Training and development opportunities
- A supportive and friendly working environment within the Peak District.
Safeguarding
Dukes Barn is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.
Further Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dukes Barn.
Dukes Barn is an equal opportunities employer. No agencies please.
Catering Assistant / Cook employer: Dukes Barn
Dukes Barn Outdoor Activity Centre is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment in the stunning Peak District. As a part-time Cook/Catering Assistant, you will enjoy competitive pay, enhanced overtime rates, and opportunities for training and development while contributing to meaningful outdoor learning experiences for young people and community groups. With a focus on teamwork and high standards of food hygiene, this role provides a rewarding experience in a vibrant and dynamic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant / Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the place! Before your interview, take a look at Dukes Barn's website and social media. Familiarising yourself with their mission and values will help you connect during the chat and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions related to cooking and catering. Prepare some examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in food hygiene and teamwork. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When you go for your interview, wear something smart but comfortable. You want to make a good impression while also feeling at ease. Remember, you’re applying for a role where you'll be in a kitchen environment!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a fantastic fit for the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant / Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When you're writing your application, let us know why you love cooking! Share any experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for preparing meals and working in a kitchen. This will help us see your personality shine through.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to mention any previous cooking or catering experience you have. Whether it's in a school, residential, or hospitality setting, we want to know how your background makes you a great fit for our team at Dukes Barn.
Emphasise Teamwork Skills:Since you'll be working as part of a small team, it's important to showcase your ability to collaborate with others. Share examples of how you've worked well in a team environment, especially during busy service periods.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important details about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dukes Barn
✨Know Your Menu
Before the interview, familiarise yourself with common dishes served in catering roles. Be ready to discuss your favourite meals to prepare and how you would adapt them for dietary requirements. This shows your passion for cooking and understanding of allergen management.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working as part of a small team, be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous jobs. Highlight any experiences where you helped maintain a positive kitchen environment, especially during busy service periods.
✨Emphasise Food Hygiene Knowledge
Brush up on food hygiene practices and allergen management before your interview. If you have any relevant qualifications, mention them! If not, express your willingness to learn and adapt, showing that you take food safety seriously.
✨Be Flexible and Reliable
The job requires a flexible approach to working hours, so be ready to discuss your availability. Share instances where you've successfully managed changing schedules or worked under pressure, demonstrating your reliability and adaptability in a busy catering environment.
