At a Glance
- Tasks: Serve delicious meals to students and staff while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Lancaster Academy, part of the Learning without Limits Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, pension scheme, wellbeing services, and discounts at popular retailers.
- Other info: Flexible hours available, with great opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives through food and support their school experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for catering; experience is a bonus but not required.
The predicted salary is between 24796 - 24796 £ per year.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 16 hours per week, weeks per year to be negotiated
Salary: Grade 1, SCP 3 - £24,796.00 (pay award pending)
Posted: 22nd May 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Expires: 5th June 2026 11:59 PM
Closing date: 4th June 2026, interviews to be held w/c 8th June 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if suitably qualified applicants are identified. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
For an informal chat please call Ben Stephenson, Trust Catering Manager.
Lancaster Academy is a thriving 11 - 16 school in Leicestershire. We are part of the Learning without Limits Academy Trust who offer support, an excellent range of CPD opportunities, staff rewards package and well-being services.
Due to the internal transfer of one of our catering assistants, we are looking to appoint a Catering Assistant to join our in-house catering team. You would be helping to serve students, staff, and visitors at lunchtimes. Experience in catering would be useful, but is not essential, and applications will be welcomed from anybody who shares a passion for catering for young people.
Lancaster Academy is a vibrant, exciting, innovative, and mixed 11-16 school. Our students are enthusiastic, and our staff are welcoming, hardworking, and supportive. If you would like to truly make a difference to our students and help us to progress and build on our previous successes, we would love to hear from you.
You will be given the opportunity to grow professionally and personally in this role and you will have access to meaningful professional development.
As a Trust, we value inclusive working practices and diverse teams. If you'd prefer to work part-time or as a job-share, please let us know on your application and we'll facilitate this wherever we can.
We offer:
- Access to the highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme
- Staff Wellbeing Package - Access to a number of free services, including confidential counselling sessions, GP Helpline, physiotherapy, virtual gym, weight management, menopause, mindfulness and relaxation sessions.
- Staff Benefits Package - Access to a huge range of savings from retailers such as Currys, Halfords, Wilko, Asda, Tesco, M&S, Morrisons plus cinema and travel.
- Cycle to Work - This initiative also allows you to make huge Tax and National Insurance savings on the cost of a new bike and safety accessories.
- Free Financial Support Service from Barclays - support with all aspects of your financial health and wellbeing.
- Eye Test Vouchers - Free SpecSavers eye test voucher for eligible staff.
- Annual Flu Vaccine - Free flu vaccine voucher annually.
- Free onsite parking.
How to Apply:
For safer recruitment purposes, we will only accept fully completed application forms through eTeach. CVs and resumes will not be considered.
Safeguarding Statement: The Learning without Limits Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS with barred list check, and a prohibition from teaching check will be completed for all applicants.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (2013 and 2020). This means that certain convictions and cautions are considered 'protected' and do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account.
Diversity Statement: As an equal opportunities employer, The Learning without Limits Academy Trust is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applications from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.
Social Media Checks: As part of the shortlisting process, in line with measures identified in statutory guidance relating to safeguarding practice, the Trust will conduct searches on candidates selected for interview, through a third party, on social media in order to identify anything that could give rise to a safeguarding concern in what has been said or done online. Only information relevant to safeguarding concerns obtained from the search will be passed over for consideration during the recruitment process.
Catering Assistant employer: Leaning Without Limits Academy Trus
Lancaster Academy is an exceptional employer located in Leicester, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff can thrive both personally and professionally. With access to a comprehensive staff wellbeing package, competitive pension scheme, and numerous professional development opportunities, employees are encouraged to grow while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people. The vibrant culture and commitment to diversity make it an attractive place for those passionate about catering and education.
Contact Details:
Leaning Without Limits Academy Trus Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Lancaster Academy and its values. When you show genuine interest in their mission, it’ll really stand out during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to catering and teamwork. We can help you with mock interviews to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! Talk about why you love catering for young people. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re informal, to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start your application, take a moment to check out Lancaster Academy and the Learning without Limits Academy Trust. Understanding our values and what we stand for will help you tailor your application to show how you fit in with our team.
Be Yourself:When filling out the application form, let your personality shine through! We want to see your passion for catering and working with young people. Don’t be afraid to share your experiences, even if they’re not directly related to catering.
Follow the Instructions:Make sure you complete the application form fully and accurately. Remember, we only accept applications through eTeach, so don’t send us a CV or resume. Stick to the guidelines and ensure everything is filled out as requested.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage early applications as we might close the vacancy if we find the right candidate. Get your application in and give yourself the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leaning Without Limits Academy Trus
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand what a Catering Assistant does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities like serving food and interacting with students. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Show Your Passion
Even if you don’t have extensive catering experience, express your passion for working with young people and contributing to their well-being. Share any relevant experiences, like volunteering or cooking for friends, to demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, the school culture, and opportunities for professional development. This shows you’re genuinely interested in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Dress Appropriately
While catering can be casual, it’s important to present yourself well for the interview. Opt for smart-casual attire that reflects professionalism. This will create a positive first impression and show that you take the opportunity seriously.
