At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing and serving delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Join Edgeborough School, a leading independent prep school in beautiful Surrey.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for training.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a chance to grow in a dynamic school setting.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on the school community while honing your catering skills.
- Qualifications: Friendly attitude, ability to work in a team, and commitment to hygiene standards.
Location: Frensham, Farnham
Salary: £17,845 per annum
Founded in 1906, Edgeborough is one of the leading, co-educational, independent Prep schools in Surrey situated in 50 acres of outstanding countryside in Frensham, Farnham. The in-house catering department is responsible for delivering a wide and varied food provision for the School community, both boarding and day pupils. The department is managed by the Operations Manager, who is responsible for the Catering and Cleaning on site. The team consists of Head Chef, sous chef, pastry chef, front of House supervisor with 11 further members of the team.
The Role
Edgeborough School is seeking a highly motivated Catering Assistant to help deliver a quality catering service in line with health, safety, allergens and hygiene requirements. The Catering Assistant plays an important role in delivering a high-quality catering service within the school. The role involves supporting food preparation, maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and cleanliness, and helping to ensure a smooth and efficient food service throughout the school day. The successful candidate will provide a friendly and professional service to pupils, staff, and visitors while contributing positively to the wider catering team.
Main Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation and presentation of school meals to a high standard.
- Prepare morning fruit and afternoon snacks for pupils throughout the school.
- Prepare fresh fruit pots for lunch and supper service.
- Prepare sandwiches and refreshments for after-school clubs, match teas, meetings, and events.
- Support the Head Chef in ensuring food is prepared and served on time.
- Ensure all food preparation and presentation meets the school’s standards, with careful attention given to allergens and dietary requirements.
- Minimise food waste and follow portion control guidelines to support cost-effective operations.
- Provide a courteous, friendly, and efficient service to pupils, staff, and visitors at all times.
Person Specification
- Friendly, caring, approachable manner.
- Flexible approach to changing circumstances.
- Able to use initiative and work without supervision, and either as part of a team or as a lone worker.
- Physically fit as this role can require frequent manual handling.
- Ability to manage time effectively.
- Calm and reassuring, especially in an emergency situation.
- Utterly discrete and capable of handling confidentiality appropriately.
- Willing, polite and professionally welcoming.
- Punctual, reliable and trustworthy.
- Diligent with great attention to detail.
- Committed to achieving high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Team player who is able to work in harmony with others.
- Willing to undertake any training relevant to the role.
Desirable:
- Previous experience of working in a school environment
- Level 2 Food Safety Certificate.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Edgeborough School, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application. The closing date for applications is 29 June 2026. Interviews are scheduled to take place on week commencing 6 July 2026.
Catering Assistant employer: Edgeborough School
Edgeborough School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment set in the beautiful countryside of Frensham, Farnham. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, staff are encouraged to enhance their skills through training opportunities while contributing to a vibrant school community. The in-house catering team prides itself on delivering high-quality meals, ensuring that every member plays a vital role in creating a positive experience for pupils, staff, and visitors alike.
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 Edgeborough School. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Edgeborough School
Don't be shy about reaching out to Edgeborough School 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 Edgeborough School 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 Edgeborough School
✨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!
