At a Glance
- Tasks: Support meal prep and ensure a smooth dining experience for students.
- Company: Join the dynamic team at Mercia Learning Trust in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an outstanding school community focused on excellence.
- Why this job: Make a difference by providing nutritious meals to students every day.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a positive attitude and teamwork spirit.
Salary FTE Grade 2 (£26,016)
Actual salary £9,071 (with under five years' service)
Contract term 15hours, 39 weeks, permanent
Start date As soon as possible
Closing date Midnight Sunday 28 June 2026
Mercia Learning Trust
Mercia Learning Trust is a successful partnership of four primary and three secondary schools located in the south-west of Sheffield. Established in 2012, with one secondary school, our trust has grown to serving over 5000 pupils, with 650 staff.
Why do we exist?
To empower everyone in our communities, especially the most disadvantaged, to succeed.
How do we behave?
We are kind - showing care and supporting each other.
We have integrity - doing the right thing and always putting children first.
We work with diligence - overcoming obstacles and having no excuses.
What do we do?
We run schools that focus on academic excellence, cultural capital and the development of character.
How will we succeed?
A culture of excellence – high standards shaped by clarity, not control.
Academic focus – empowering all children through an exceptional curriculum.
Purposeful collaboration – relationships built on trust, reducing sub-optimisation and driving collective success.
Our staff are a crucial part of our trust, just like our pupils. We are devoted to recruiting, training, retaining and taking good care of our highly skilled and dedicated team.
Mercia School
Mercia School (11-18) opened in 2018 in a brand-new building. Leaders and governors have an ambitious vision for the school and are determined that all pupils, irrespective of background will thrive and achieve well. The school has secured a strong reputation for educational excellence and during the last three years, has been the most over-subscribed school in the city.
In February 2023, Ofsted inspected the school and graded all aspects of provision, and its overall effectiveness, to be ‘Outstanding’. Mercia School published exceptional GCSE results in the summer of 2023, achieving the highest Progress 8 score for disadvantaged pupils, this high-level of performance was repeated in 2024.
Mercia Collegiate Sixth Form opened in September 2023. As the school continues to grow, it is crucial that we sustain our culture and effectiveness, and this role is central to our continued success.
The role
As part of our dedicated catering team, we are seeking a dedicated and motivated kitchen porter to join our team. The role is15-hours per week. The working hours are 11.30am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday, term time only.
As a kitchen porter, you will play a crucial role in supporting our daily meal preparation and ensuring the smooth operation of our family dining. You will collaborate closely with our head chef and kitchen staff to uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. Your efforts will contribute to providing nutritious meals for our students and promoting a healthy and efficient family dining environment.
Kitchen Porter in Sheffield employer: Mercia School
Mercia Learning Trust is an exceptional employer located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. With a strong focus on employee development and well-being, the trust offers meaningful opportunities for growth within its thriving educational community. Join us in making a difference as we empower our staff and students alike, all while enjoying the benefits of working in a highly regarded institution committed to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Porter in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen team! When you walk in for your interview, show genuine interest in their work. Ask questions about their daily routines and how they maintain high standards. This not only shows you're keen but also helps you connect with them.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to demonstrate your skills on the spot! If they ask you about food safety or hygiene practices, share what you know. If possible, mention any relevant experience you've had in similar roles. We want to see that you can handle the heat!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for teamwork! The kitchen is all about collaboration, so highlight any experiences where you've worked well with others. Share stories that showcase your ability to support your colleagues and contribute to a positive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can go a long way. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and helps keep you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Porter in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Kitchen Porter and how your skills match up. This will help you tailor your application to stand out!
Show Your Passion for Food and Teamwork:In your written application, let us know why you're excited about working in a kitchen environment. Share any relevant experience or skills that highlight your ability to work well with others and contribute to a positive dining experience for our students.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When writing your application, be clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We want to see your personality shine through, but also appreciate a straightforward approach that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it's super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mercia School
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand what a kitchen porter does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities like meal preparation and hygiene standards. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working closely with the head chef and kitchen staff, it's important to demonstrate your ability to work as part of a team. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've collaborated effectively with others, and be ready to share them during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
Food safety and hygiene are crucial in a kitchen environment. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure cleanliness and organisation in your previous roles. Mention any specific practices you follow to maintain high standards, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the kitchen's daily operations or how the team collaborates during busy periods. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
