At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals while maintaining a clean and safe kitchen environment.
- Company: Join a supportive independent school dedicated to student wellbeing and engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, enhanced maternity/paternity leave, and fully funded training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values equality and supports military families.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives by providing healthy meals in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Food Hygiene qualifications preferred; experience in a school setting is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Purpose of the Role
To prepare and serve nutritious, balanced meals that meet the dietary needs of pupils and staff, supporting their health and wellbeing. The Cook will embody the EPIC values and adhere strictly to the Staff Code of Conduct, contributing to a safe, respectful, and nurturing school environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Responsible for the cleanliness of the kitchen and other designated areas throughout the house.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene by adhering to company policies and procedures including HACCP and COSHH.
- Food preparation (well-balanced dinners adhering to dietary and allergy requirements), completing and updating menu sheets, stock control, regular checks and monitoring or upkeep of appliances.
Requirements
- A committed and passionate view of students with SEND.
- Experience of working in a school environment, preferred but not necessary.
- This vacancy is open to a specialist with Food Hygiene Qualifications or Equivalent.
Benefits of Joining Keys Group
- NEST enhanced pension scheme.
- Staff Referral Scheme – Refer a friend to join Keys Group and split a £500 referral bonus between you.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Access to a blue light discount card.
- Fully funded training and qualifications for all colleagues.
- Enhanced pay scales based on experience and qualifications.
- Employee benefits scheme such as wellbeing app and a range of discounts.
- Life assurance.
Commitment to Equality and Armed Forces Covenant
Keys Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including veterans and military families, through our Armed Forces Covenant. Eligible service personnel and veterans are guaranteed an interview when their military experience is detailed in their CV. We provide veteran-friendly policies, peer support, and military awareness training.
Safeguarding
We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All posts require an enhanced DBS check.
School tours are highly welcomed as a part of our interview selection process. Please note we reserve the right to close the vacancy early should we receive a significant number of suitable applications. In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education an online search will be carried out on shortlisted candidates as part of our due diligence checks.
Cook employer: Keys Children
At Snow Hill School, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our fully funded training opportunities and enhanced pay scales, ensuring that our staff are well-equipped to provide the best care for our students. Located in Stoke on Trent, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying a range of benefits including a generous pension scheme and employee discounts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨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 Keys Children. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Keys Children
Don't be shy about reaching out to Keys Children 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 Cook
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 Keys Children 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 Keys Children
✨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!
