At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in providing quality catering services during school term time.
- Company: Join East Lothian Council, dedicated to serving the community and supporting local schools.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive hourly rate and work during school hours, perfect for students!
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment while making a difference in children's lives.
- Qualifications: Must hold an Elementary Food Hygiene Certificate and be a PVG member.
- Other info: Positions available at St. Gabriel's RC and Wallyford Primary Schools; apply online only.
Vacancy Information
The salary advertised is full time (35 hours per week, 52 weeks per year). Part-time hours / sessional posts will be pro-rated accordingly.
Hourly rate of pay: £12.96 – £13.78
This is a 38 week sessional post i.e. working hours will be during school term time only.
Post 1 – 12 Hours per Week @ St. Gabriel's RC Primary School
Temporary maternity cover until 18th February 2026.
Days and Hours of Work:
Monday – Thursday, 11:00-14:00
To start asap.
Post 2 – 10 Hours per Week @ Wallyford Primary School
Temporary maternity cover until 3rd March 2026.
Days and Hours of Work:
Monday – Thursday, 11:30-14:00
To start asap.
You will be asked to indicate which post(s) you would like to be considered for when you complete the application form.
It is essential that all applicants hold an Elementary Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2). This can be obtained on-line and is available from many on-line training providers.
Job Details
To assist in the provision of a quality catering and function service in accordance with relevant legislative requirements including health and safety, food hygiene, and hazard analysis within the food industry.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under 'Job Attachments') for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
The East Lothian Way
The ‘East Lothian Way’– values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements
Relevant Qualifications
Elementary food hygiene certificate.
PVG Membership
This post is considered as Regulated Work with vulnerable children and/or protected adults, as specified in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007.
All preferred candidates for posts carrying out regulated work with these groups will be required to become a PVG Scheme member, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if they are already a member, prior to any formal offer of employment being made by East Lothian Council.
Please note: PVG member’s records are constantly updated with any new vetting information that arises. Any information that is disclosed on a PVG membership or update check, if relevant to the post being applied for, will be discussed with the applicant and investigated prior to any formal offer being made.
Please note:
If you have spent more than 3 months working or living outwith the UK in the last 5 years then you will be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Additional Information
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link:
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link
If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on
Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form.
Catering Assistant - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC & Wallyford Primary School - EAL11018 employer: East Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
East Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC & Wallyford Primary School - EAL11018
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure you have your Elementary Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2) ready before applying. This is a must-have for the role, and having it in hand shows you're serious about the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the East Lothian Way values and behaviours. If you get an interview, you'll likely be asked about these, so understanding them will help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
When filling out the application form, refer to the Job Outline/Person Specification closely. Make sure you address each 'essential' criterion to increase your chances of being shortlisted.
✨Tip Number 4
If you have lived or worked outside the UK in the last five years, prepare to present an overseas criminal record check. Being proactive about this can save you time later in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC & Wallyford Primary School - EAL11018
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Requirements: Carefully read the job description and person specification. Make sure you understand the essential criteria, especially the requirement for an Elementary Food Hygiene Certificate. Highlight how your qualifications meet these requirements in your application.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your application form to reflect your relevant experience and skills related to catering and food hygiene. Use specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to provide quality catering services.
Familiarize Yourself with 'The East Lothian Way': Review the values and behaviors expected of employees as outlined in 'The East Lothian Way'. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your application and potential interview.
Complete the Online Application Form: Ensure you fill out the online application form completely and accurately. Remember, CVs are not accepted, so focus on providing detailed responses to all sections of the form, particularly those that relate to the essential criteria.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Know the Job Requirements
Make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and person specification. Familiarize yourself with the essential criteria, especially the need for an Elementary Food Hygiene Certificate, as this will be a key topic during your interview.
✨Understand the East Lothian Way
Review the values and behaviors outlined in the 'East Lothian Way' document. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work, as interviewers may ask questions related to them.
✨Prepare for Health and Safety Questions
Since the role involves catering and food hygiene, expect questions about health and safety regulations. Brush up on relevant legislation and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of safe food handling practices.
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
As this position involves working in schools, express your enthusiasm for contributing to a positive environment for children. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your ability to engage with young people effectively.