At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in food prep, serve meals, and maintain kitchen cleanliness.
- Company: Join a friendly team at The Pointer School in Blackheath.
- Benefits: Earn £14.80/hour, enjoy term-time hours, and 50% fee discount for children.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with great career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Work with a Michelin-starred chef and make a difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Reliability, teamwork, and a commitment to cleanliness are key.
The Pointer School is an independent Christian Prep and Pre-Prep School in Blackheath, South East London. We are seeking a hardworking, reliable and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our friendly catering team on a fixed-term maternity cover contract from September 2026.
Working alongside our experienced catering team, including a former double Michelin-starred Executive Chef, you will help provide fresh, nutritious meals for our pupils and staff while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, organisation and food hygiene.
The Role
As a Kitchen Assistant, you will play an important role in the smooth day-to-day running of the school kitchen. Your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with basic food preparation.
- Serving meals to pupils and staff.
- Washing up crockery, cutlery and kitchen equipment.
- Cleaning and clearing all kitchen and food preparation areas.
- Unloading, checking and putting away deliveries.
- Emptying bins and maintaining clean, safe working areas.
- Ensuring all kitchen equipment is cleaned and stored correctly.
- Carrying out regular deep cleaning of fridges, cupboards and storage areas.
- Following food hygiene, allergen and health and safety procedures at all times.
- Supporting the wider catering team with the daily operation of the kitchen.
About You
The successful candidate will be:
- Reliable, punctual and hardworking.
- Friendly, positive and able to work well as part of a team.
- Able to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment.
- Committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food hygiene.
- Willing to undertake physical duties, including lifting, cleaning and standing for extended periods.
- Previous experience in a commercial or school kitchen is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided for the right candidate.
Hours of Work
Monday to Friday
8:30am to 2:30pm
Term time only (approximately 34 weeks per year, with around 18 weeks’ holiday).
This is a fixed-term maternity cover position commencing in September 2026 and is expected to continue until July 2027 or until the substantive postholder returns, whichever is sooner.
Salary
£14.80 per hour (Real London Living Wage)
We Can Offer
- A competitive salary and the opportunity to work for an exceptional organisation.
- The opportunity to work within a highly supportive and talented catering team, including working alongside a former double Michelin-starred Executive Chef.
- 50% fee discount (pro rata) for children attending the school.
- Career progression through continuing professional development and opportunities for internal promotion.
- Polite, enthusiastic children who are excited to learn within a caring and happy environment.
- A school community committed to doing the very best for every pupil.
- Family-friendly, term-time only working with approximately 18 weeks’ holiday each year.
The Pointer School is totally committed to safeguarding the welfare of students and young people and expects the same from its employees. All new staff will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance, identity checks, qualification checks and employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps within employment, two satisfactory references and registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please note that online searches will be conducted on all shortlisted candidates in line with KCSiE.
Kitchen Assistant (Maternity Cover) employer: Dukes Education Group
Dukes Education Group is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inspiring environment for Early Years Foundation Stage practitioners at Broomfield House School in Richmond. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from innovative practices and collaborative teamwork, all while contributing to a world-class educational experience that fosters a love for learning in young minds.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant (Maternity Cover)
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dukes Education Group
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Dukes Education Group. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
