At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the running of a busy residential centre with cleaning, catering, and customer service.
- Company: Join a welcoming team at Cardsfields Environmental Studies Centre in Chelmsford.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 36 days leave, flexible hours, and competitive pay.
- Other info: Great opportunities for learning and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference while gaining valuable skills in hospitality and customer service.
- Qualifications: Hard-working, flexible, and committed to outstanding service; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 € per hour.
About the Role
We are seeking to appoint a Centre Assistant to work in our Cardsfields residential centre based in Chelmsford, Essex. Cardfields – Environmental studies centre is a residential centre that welcomes schools and community groups from Islington and other areas and is also available for private hire. The role supports the running of this busy centre.
Key Responsibilities
- Be able to work quickly and effectively to tight deadlines carrying out cleaning duties, making beds, vacuuming and laundry to maintain health and safety standards.
- Work without supervision, use initiative, support the catering team and carry out associated tasks such as cleaning and clearing surfaces.
- Cover breakfast and lunch duties.
- Have flexibility within all areas.
- Be keen to learn/develop and undertake Child Protection training.
- Be keen to learn and develop skills in Food Hygiene qualification.
- Be polite and always welcoming to provide outstanding customer service.
Schedule
20‑hour post, Monday‑Friday only term time only. 5 hours Monday, 4.5 hours Tuesday, 4.5 hours Thursday, plus 6 hours Friday, term time only. Please note: Centre Assistant will be required to work one weekend in four when required.
Applications
Closing date: Sunday 31st May 2026 at 23:59. Interview & testing date: Tuesday 7th July 2026 to start in the role in September 2026.
For an informal chat about the post please contact Elaine Clarke – Service Manager, Ann Warren – Head Housekeeper on 01245380031. If you think you have what it takes please apply online to www.islington.gov.uk/working or support with application contact the Service Manager.
About You
We are looking for a hard‑working and capable individual who would like to work in hospitality. Candidates should be able to work without supervision, be flexible, and be committed to providing outstanding customer service. They should also be willing to undertake Child Protection training and Food Hygiene training.
Benefits
- Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
- A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
- Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
- Competitive pay and commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
- Excellent local government pension scheme.
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
- Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more.
Pre‑Employment Checks
- Proof of address.
- Evidence of any name changes (if applicable).
- Right to work in the UK.
- Overseas criminal record check (if applicable).
- Satisfactory references.
- Occupational Health clearance.
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations.
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable).
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with children barred list, qualifications check and 3/5 years referencing.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. We maintain a zero‑tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act. We support our staff during recruitment with a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities and a Disability Confident Scheme.
Centre Assistant employer: Islington Council
Join our dynamic team at Cardfields, a welcoming residential centre in Chelmsford, where we prioritise employee well-being and professional growth. Enjoy up to 31 days of leave, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to the London Living Wage, all while contributing to a positive environment for schools and community groups. With opportunities for training in Child Protection and Food Hygiene, you will be supported in your development within a culture that values outstanding customer service and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the centre! Before your interview, take a moment to research Cardfields and its mission. Understanding the environment you'll be working in shows genuine interest and can help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since the role involves providing outstanding service, think of examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for someone. This will help you shine during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to show your flexibility! The job requires adaptability, so come prepared with examples of how you've successfully handled changing situations or tight deadlines in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Elaine or Ann for an informal chat before applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When you're writing your application, let your passion for hospitality shine through! We want to see that you're excited about the role and ready to contribute to our team at Cardfields.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to mention any previous experience you have in cleaning, customer service, or working in a team. We love to see how your skills can help us maintain our high standards at the centre.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and get straight to the important stuff!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Islington Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Centre Assistant. Familiarise yourself with tasks like cleaning, supporting the catering team, and providing excellent customer service. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Flexibility
The job requires flexibility, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in previous roles. Share examples of times when you’ve worked without supervision or taken the initiative to solve problems. This will demonstrate that you can handle the demands of the position.
✨Highlight Your Customer Service Skills
Outstanding customer service is crucial for this role. Think of specific instances where you provided excellent service or went above and beyond for customers. This will help you stand out as someone who truly values the experience of those you serve.
✨Prepare for Training Questions
Since the role involves Child Protection and Food Hygiene training, be ready to discuss your willingness to learn and develop new skills. You might want to mention any relevant training you've done in the past or express your enthusiasm for gaining these qualifications.
