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- Tasks: Join our team as a Food Services Assistant, providing catering services to our vibrant school community.
- Company: George Heriot's School is Edinburgh's leading independent school with a rich history and commitment to education.
- Benefits: Enjoy family-friendly policies, training opportunities, and potential school fee remission.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment where kindness and teamwork are valued, making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience and a food hygiene qualification are desirable.
- Other info: This role is term-time only, offering flexibility in hours and a chance to engage with the community.
The following content displays a map of the jobs location – Edinburgh
Monday to Friday (some weekend work may be required) between 7.30am-3.00pm, Term-Time Only
Location:
Edinburgh
Closing Date:
08/08/2025
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 30 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 youngpeople 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 candidateswill be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme.
Please note that parking is not available on our campus
George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applicationsfrom all sections of the community.
George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity numberSC011463
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
Familiarise yourself with the ethos of George Heriot's School. Understanding their motto, 'distribute chearfullie', and how it reflects in their community can help you connect with the values they seek in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous kitchen experience or relevant food hygiene qualifications during your interactions. This will show that you are prepared and understand the importance of food safety in a school environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Since the role may require some weekend work, showing your willingness to adapt can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with the school's community initiatives. Mentioning any interest or involvement in community service can demonstrate your commitment to the values of Heriot's and your desire to contribute positively to the school environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Food Services Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Food Services Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have previous kitchen experience or a food hygiene qualification, make sure to emphasise these in your CV and cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background makes you a suitable candidate for the position.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Express your passion for working in a supportive and community-focused environment like George Heriot's School. Mention why you are excited about the opportunity to contribute to their hospitality and catering team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a role that involves serving others.
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson's College
✨Show Your Passion for Food Services
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working in food services. Talk about any previous experiences you have had in kitchens or catering, and how they have shaped your desire to contribute to a community-focused environment like that of Heriot's.
✨Highlight Relevant Qualifications
If you have a food hygiene qualification or any other relevant certifications, be sure to mention them during the interview. This shows that you are serious about maintaining high standards in food safety and hygiene.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working as part of a team, share examples of how you have successfully collaborated with others in past roles. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and support your colleagues, aligning with the school's ethos of kindness and community.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the school culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if the environment is the right fit for you. Consider asking about opportunities for professional development or how the team fosters a supportive atmosphere.
