At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen crew to prepare and serve delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Palmer & Howells, a dynamic company focused on nutritious food and community.
- Benefits: Earn £13 per hour with flexible hours and opportunities for training and development.
- Other info: Great career growth potential with a focus on collaboration and culinary excellence.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and make a real impact in the school community.
- Qualifications: A passion for food and teamwork; training provided for the right candidate.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 13 £ per hour.
Job Reference: JGT/TP/76/8867
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Permanent
Rate: £13 per hour
Working Hours: 20 hours per week
Weeks: 35 weeks per year
Location: Dulwich
Closing Date: 19/08/2026
About us: At Palmer & Howells, we recognise that food is more than what you eat—it is energy, education, and community. We value our staff deeply, recognising the unique skills each person brings. Our staff are dedicated to creative, highly nutritious dishes designed to offer optimal energy. We thrive on collaboration, meticulous communication, and a keen desire to explore the potential of high-quality, fresh ingredients.
This is a dynamic, hands-on role. You will be fully involved in everything from preparation work outside of busy service times to creative innovation. While working in a school kitchen offers fantastic hours, be prepared for a varied workload that requires an adaptable outlook alongside your core tasks.
The Role: We are looking for a dedicated and energetic Catering Assistant to join our friendly team and help us deliver delicious, nutritious meals to our students and staff every day. This is a chance to be a vital part of the school community!
Key Responsibilities:
- Instil a strong sense of teamwork by collaborating closely with the kitchen and wider school team to prepare and serve freshly made, high-quality lunches for pupils and staff.
- Maintain a spotless and safe kitchen environment, strictly adhering to all Food Hygiene and Health & Safety policies.
- Work with speed and efficiency to manage the demands and service requirements during busy lunch periods.
- Prepare and complete food service requirements for special school occasions, including meetings, sports days, and other events.
- Deliver the highest quality of innovative, fresh, and delicious food and service to our pupils.
What you’ll need:
- A versatile, outgoing, and highly collaborative approach to working that aligns with our positive team values.
- A genuine interest in food preparation and cooking, with a desire to learn and contribute to nutritious menus.
- Basic knowledge of Health & Safety principles.
- A Food Safety Level 2 certificate is a bonus, but we will provide training for the right candidate!
- The ability to reliably work the listed hours and easily commute to the school location.
Join a supportive team committed to collaboration and the pursuit of culinary excellence.
Safeguarding Commitment: Palmer & Howells is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Catering Assistant - James Allen Girls School employer: Grow and Thrive Limited
Grow and Thrive Limited is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment in Tenbury Wells where you can enjoy a great work-life balance with no late nights or weekends. As a Catering Assistant, you'll have the opportunity to develop your skills in a team-oriented atmosphere while contributing to the well-being of students through exceptional food service. We prioritise employee growth and provide a fulfilling career path in the catering industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - James Allen Girls School
✨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 Grow and Thrive Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Grow and Thrive Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Grow and Thrive Limited 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 - James Allen Girls School
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 Grow and Thrive Limited 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 Grow and Thrive Limited
✨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!
