At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging cooking lessons and support students in developing essential life skills.
- Company: Inclusive alternative provision focused on empowering at-risk students.
- Benefits: Fast-track compliance, CPD courses, free resources, and 24/7 consultant support.
- Other info: Opportunity to innovate and expand the food programme with your ideas.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while sharing your passion for cooking.
- Qualifications: Experience in education or youth work is a plus, but enthusiasm is key.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Location: Leeds, LS6
Start date: 1 September 2026
Contract: Full-time, temporary to permanent
We are recruiting a passionate and creative Food HLTA/Cooking Instructor for a small, inclusive alternative provision supporting KS3 and KS4 students who are at risk of permanent exclusion or disengaged from mainstream education. You will lead practical, engaging cooking lessons for groups of no more than four pupils, helping them develop confidence, independence and essential life skills.
Key responsibilities:
- Plan and deliver engaging practical cooking sessions
- Support the BTEC Home Cooking Skills qualification
- Record KS4 students’ work using an iPad
- Manage the weekly food shop and allocated budget
- Maintain a clean, safe and welcoming kitchen
- Build positive relationships with pupils with SEMH needs
We are looking for someone who is practical, proactive, resilient and passionate about cooking and supporting young people. Experience in education, youth work, SEMH or alternative provision would be beneficial, although the right attitude and ability to engage students are equally important. This is a rewarding temporary-to-permanent opportunity with scope to develop and expand the food provision using your own ideas.
Benefits:
- Speedy registration process & fast-track compliance – APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards.
- 5+ CPD courses completed before placement (including Safeguarding, SEND & Behaviour) with access to further accredited training through Milk Academy.
- FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources, designed by real teachers.
- FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub – because we believe supported staff stay longer and make a bigger impact.
- School Preparation Pack with handover notes and insightful school guides – so you walk in ready on day one.
- 24/7 support from your personal consultant, directly through their work mobile phone to ensure your journey is personal.
This role is paid within the advertised pay scale. Your starting rate will be determined by your qualifications, relevant experience, and the requirements of the assignment.
Food HLTA/Cooking Instructor – Alternative Provision in Leeds employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Liverpool. With significant progression pathways, generous incentives, and a supportive environment, we empower our team to thrive in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance with 23 days off annually plus bank holidays.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food HLTA/Cooking Instructor – Alternative Provision in Leeds
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Milk Education.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Milk Education!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Milk Education, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Milk Education, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Food HLTA/Cooking Instructor – Alternative Provision in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Milk Education, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Milk Education.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Milk Education. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Milk Education. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Milk Education’s mission.
