At a Glance
- Tasks: Support practical Food lessons by preparing materials and ensuring a safe learning environment.
- Company: Join River Academy, a growing school with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' learning experiences while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in science or technology; first aid training is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 13544 - 13544 £ per year.
Location: 7 Richfield Avenue, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 8EQ
Contract Details: Permanent part-time position. Salary: £13,544 annually (actual). Grade 4 (SCP 7-11) working term-time only with 5 INSET days; 22.20 hours per week. Full-time equivalent: £26,402. Hours per week: 22.60. Positions available: 1. Closing date: Midnight, Mon 15 Jun 2026. Start date: September 2026.
About This Role: River Academy, opened September 2024 with 180 students and a small resource base, anticipates an increase in student numbers with the next cohort of Year 7 students in September 2026. The school is oversubscribed across all year groups and expects continued high demand. The Food Technician will support the safe, smooth and efficient operation of practical Food lessons — preparing materials and equipment, maintaining resources, and ensuring students can take part in high-quality practical learning safely and effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, assemble and modify apparatus, materials and equipment required for practical lessons.
- Support teaching colleagues with demonstrations, practical activities and assessed practical work.
- Provide technical guidance to colleagues and students on the safe and correct use of materials and equipment.
- Organise, store and check equipment and materials, ensuring they are safe, available and fit for purpose.
- Support compliance with Health and Safety requirements, including COSHH regulations.
- Carry out technician-related risk assessments and report any concerns promptly.
- Dispose of waste materials safely and in line with relevant regulations.
- Maintain first aid kits and relevant safety equipment, carrying out safety checks where required.
- Support inclusive access to practical activities by ensuring equipment and resources are prepared and accessible for students.
- Work collaboratively with teaching and support colleagues to maintain high standards across the department.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Composed, practical and proactive, with a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
- Ability to manage competing tasks and maintain orderly working environments, working effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety requirements, including COSHH regulations, and confidence in supporting the safe handling, storage and disposal of materials.
- Strong communication skills are important, as the role involves working with colleagues and students to support safe and effective practical learning.
- NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification in science or technology is required.
- First aid training is desirable.
Benefits:
- Pension scheme: generous employer contributions with auto-enrolment into either the Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme, both Career Average Earning Schemes.
- Annual leave: generous holiday entitlement increasing with length of service.
- Hybrid working: flexible approach to working arrangements where appropriate.
- Employee assistance programme including discount vouchers and 24/7 support.
- English language provider Perkbox offering discounts and wellness resources.
- Free flu vaccinations for staff.
- Mental health first aid support.
Contact:
Email: Hartley@maidenerleghtrust.org
Food Technician at River Academy in Reading employer: Maiden Erlegh Trust
River Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to a supportive work culture, employees benefit from generous pension contributions, flexible working arrangements, and access to wellness resources, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling work environment. As a part of a rapidly growing institution, the Food Technician role offers unique opportunities to contribute to high-quality education while fostering a collaborative atmosphere among colleagues and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Technician at River Academy in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at River Academy on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to food safety and practical lessons. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for food education! Bring examples of how you've supported practical learning in the past, whether through projects or volunteer work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the team at River Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Food Technician at River Academy in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Food Technician role. We want to see how you can support practical lessons and ensure a safe learning environment for students.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves working closely with both colleagues and students, it's essential to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Share examples of how you've effectively collaborated in past roles or projects.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification in science or technology. If you have any first aid training, be sure to include that too! We love seeing candidates who are proactive about safety.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Maiden Erlegh Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of food safety and Health and Safety regulations, especially COSHH. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the importance of safety in a practical environment.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with teaching colleagues and students. Be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated in the past. Highlighting your ability to work as part of a team will demonstrate that you can contribute positively to the department.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential practical lessons you might support and how you would prepare for them. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure materials are safe and accessible for all students, showcasing your proactive approach to practical learning.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to practical lessons or how they handle health and safety. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
