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- Tasks: Join our team to provide delicious meals and support the Heriot’s community.
- Company: George Heriot's School, a leading independent school in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Family-friendly policies, training opportunities, and school fee remission.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment where your contributions are valued.
- Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience and food hygiene qualification preferred.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; commitment to safeguarding children is essential.
Overview
Location: Edinburgh
Working hours: Monday to Friday (some weekend work may be required) between 7.30am-4.00pm, Term-Time Only, 30-37 hours p/w
Closing Date: 19/09/2025
Department: Operational/Professional Services
Region / Division: George Heriot\’s School
Job Role: Operational/Professional Services
Package Description
When you join the team at Heriot’s, you become part of our community, where the contribution of every individual is important and valued. The Heriot’s motto, to distribute chearfullie, is at the heart of our school, so distributing of kindness, of support and of generosity remains as live today as it was in 1628 when George Heriot founded our school.
Our staff survey in 2019 revealed that 97% of employees at Heriot’s feel motivated and happy to work here and we aim to provide a friendly, welcoming and supportive environment for all of our people. This aim is reflected in the package we offer, which, for Support Staff, in addition to basic salary, includes:
- Family friendly policies
- Annual review and opportunities for training and continued professional development
- Travel to work schemes
- School Fee Remission (non-contractual benefit)
- Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community
We aim to attract and retain a diverse group of talented people, which is committed to upholding the ethos of our school and, as an Equal Opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
The Role
We are seeking to appoint experienced Food Services Assistants to join our Hospitality and Catering team which provides a full range of catering services for the Heriot’s Community including pupils, staff, governors and visitors. You will work up to between 30-37 hours per week between the hours of 7.00am – 3.00pm Monday to Friday ,Term-Time only.
We have some flexibility in hours which can be discussed at interview stage.
Main Responsibilities
Please see job description for full duties.
The Ideal Candidate
Previous kitchen experience would be desirable along with a relevant food hygiene qualification.
Additional Information
Heriot’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 and the successful candidates will be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme.
Parking is not available on our campus
George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity number SC011463
About the school/organisation
George Heriot’s School
George Heriot’s School is Edinburgh’s leading independent school. Academically proven and recognised as sector-leading by Education Scotland in June 2024, the school’s best practice expertise in wellbeing, equality and inclusion, and in raising attainment and achievement, is acknowledged. The school has 1,670 pupils aged from 4-18, with a distinct family feel shaped by its 400-year motto: I distribute chearfullie. Working hard, being kind, and being yourself are the values which bind staff and pupils into a cohesive whole. Put simply, Heriot’s cares about its staff and pupils.
As Edinburgh’s oldest school, Heriot’s was founded through the generosity of George Heriot, jeweller and goldsmith to the court of King James VI/I and his wife Queen Anne. Goldsmiths at that time were the principal money lenders and Heriot was able to amass a small fortune which he left to found a school for the ‘poor bairns of Edinburgh’. Since it opened, the Foundation at Heriot’s has developed an unrivalled understanding of providing bereavement support and over the years has educated in excess of 5,700 Foundation pupils, each of whom received a fully funded education in keeping with the Founder’s wishes.
Separately, the school has continued to apply the transformative powers of education, opening 21 Out Schools in the 1800s which educated over 100,000 boys and girls in Edinburgh before the advent of the Children’s Act, and more recently supporting Serbian, Syrian and Ukrainian refugees to build a better life in Scotland. Each year the school spends approximately £1.3 million to support the education of bursary and Foundation pupils.
Today the school is an award-winning beacon: the only school in Scotland to receive the Gold Award from SAPERE for its teaching of philosophy in Junior School; awarded a third consecutive gold award for being a UNICEF Rights Respecting School and being voted the Sunday Times School of the Decade by readers in their Parent Power survey.
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Food Services Assistants employer: George Watson'S College
Contact Detail:
George Watson'S College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Services Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research George Heriot's School and its values. When you understand their ethos of kindness and community, you can tailor your approach during interviews to show how you fit right in.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to food services. Think about your previous experiences and how they align with the role. Confidence is key, so rehearse until you feel ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Heriot’s community. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Food Services Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food Services: When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about working in food services. Share any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for our team at Heriot’s.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your previous kitchen experience and any food hygiene qualifications you have, as these are key for us.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you the ideal candidate for the Food Services Assistant position.
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 fantastic opportunity at Heriot’s.
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson'S College
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your food hygiene knowledge and any relevant kitchen experience. Being able to discuss your past roles and how they relate to the responsibilities at Heriot’s will show that you're prepared and serious about the position.
✨Embrace the Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's motto, 'I distribute chearfullie', and think about how you can embody this in your role. During the interview, share examples of how you've contributed positively to a team or community in the past.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since there’s some flexibility in working hours, be ready to discuss your availability openly. This shows that you’re adaptable and willing to meet the needs of the school, which is a big plus for any employer.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for working in a supportive environment shine through. Talk about why you want to work at Heriot’s specifically and how you can contribute to the friendly atmosphere they pride themselves on.