At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals while supporting pupils' wellbeing during lunchtime.
- Company: Belmont Schools, a nurturing environment for pupils with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Life assurance, pension scheme, mental health support, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in pupils' lives while enjoying a rewarding kitchen role.
- Qualifications: Catering qualifications, Level 2 Food Safety Certificate, and a positive attitude.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a great place to work with excellent career growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Kitchen Assistant to join our friendly and committed team, supporting pupils across both Belmont Secondary and Belmont Primary Schools. This is a rewarding role where your work has a direct and positive impact on pupils' daily school experience. This is far more than a traditional kitchen role. As a Kitchen Assistant, you'll be a key part of pupils' daily experience, supporting both their wellbeing and enjoyment of school life.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve nutritious, well-balanced meals
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety
- Ensure dietary and allergen requirements are carefully met
- Support lunchtime supervision, helping create a calm, friendly, and welcoming dining environment
Every smile, every calm lunchtime, and every plate served contributes to a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive.
Qualifications
- Relevant catering or hospitality qualifications (e.g. City & Guilds or NVQ)
- A Level 2 Food Safety Certificate
- Confidence and fluency in spoken English
- A positive, enthusiastic approach and a genuine interest in working with children
- The ability to work well as part of a team while following health and safety procedures
About the School
At Belmont Schools, we believe that mealtimes matter. They provide structure, comfort, and a sense of routine for our pupils - many of whom have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Belmont Secondary School is an independent specialist school for boys aged 11-18 with SEMH needs. We provide a trauma-informed, nurturing environment where every pupil feels safe and supported. Small classes, personalised pathways, and on-site therapeutic support help pupils build confidence, resilience, and life skills. Our curriculum combines academic, vocational, and creative opportunities to prepare pupils for a successful future.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people's lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- 'Your Wellbeing Matters' - mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
Note: We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Kitchen Assistant in Rawtenstall employer: FirstGroup plc
Contact Detail:
FirstGroup plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant in Rawtenstall
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Belmont Schools and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in pupils' lives.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to working with children and food safety. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to a nurturing environment for pupils.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant in Rawtenstall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a positive impact on pupils' lives.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous experience in catering or working with children. We love to see how your background aligns with the role of Kitchen Assistant and how you can contribute to our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and qualifications are easy to spot. This helps us understand why you're the perfect fit for our kitchen!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding role at Belmont Schools.
How to prepare for a job interview at FirstGroup plc
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Kitchen Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the importance of preparing nutritious meals and maintaining hygiene standards. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to the role during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Be ready to share why you want to work with pupils, especially those with SEMH needs. Highlight any previous experience or personal anecdotes that showcase your enthusiasm and ability to create a positive dining environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food safety and dietary requirements. Brush up on your knowledge of allergen management and hygiene practices. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you take the role seriously.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since this role involves working closely with others, be prepared to talk about your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated in past roles, and express your willingness to support colleagues in creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere.