At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a catering team to prepare nutritious meals and support offenders in skill development.
- Company: Join a unique catering team within HMP Hindley, making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, and apprenticeship opportunities while earning.
- Other info: Flexible hours with part-time options and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Transform lives through cooking and help others gain valuable skills for their future.
- Qualifications: Level 2 food production certificate and food hygiene certification required.
The predicted salary is between 25147 - 27596 £ per year.
This is not your average catering job. It is a great chance to put your catering qualifications and skills into practice and make an impact far beyond the kitchen. As part of the prison's catering team, you'll be working in a professional industrial kitchen environment, with a good salary, pension and Civil Service benefits including apprenticeship opportunities 'earn while you learn'. Unlike traditional restaurant jobs, you won't have to work late into the evening. You'll oversee the work of offenders to prepare and cook quality, nutritional meals for the entire prison. Plus, you'll play your part in helping them turn their lives around - supporting them to learn new skills and work towards gaining qualifications to increase their chances of employment and reduce their likelihood of reoffending when they leave prison.
Hours and salary
You will work a 37‑hour week and shift patterns are in place which include hours outside of 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, weekends and public holidays. You will receive a 20% unsocial hours payment in addition to your basic pay, subject to working these hours. All roles can be open to part-time and job share arrangements subject to the business need/operational requirement. However, you will still be required to undertake the full range of shifts. As a new recruit, you will start on the minimum salary.
Qualifications
- Level 2 certificate in food production within hospitality and catering or equivalent
- Food hygiene certificate at Level 2
In addition, you must be:
- Familiar with all current health, safety and hygiene related regulations for working in a kitchen
- Able to demonstrate competency within an industrial kitchen environment
- Able to speak with confidence in English
Please note refresher training in food safety (HACCP) should be completed at three year intervals.
Salary
Band 3 salary minimum inclusive of 20% unsocial hours allowance - £34,928
Band 3 salary maximum inclusive of 20% unsocial hours allowance - £36,778
18768 - Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Hindley employer: Ministry of Justice
At HMP Hindley, we offer a unique catering role that goes beyond traditional kitchen work, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of offenders while honing your culinary skills in a professional environment. With competitive salaries, comprehensive Civil Service benefits, and opportunities for personal and professional growth through apprenticeships, our supportive work culture prioritises employee development and work-life balance. Join us in transforming lives through quality nutrition and skill-building, all while enjoying a structured shift pattern that respects your time.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 18768 - Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Hindley
✨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 Ministry of Justice. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Ministry of Justice
Don't be shy about reaching out to Ministry of Justice 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 18768 - Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Hindley
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 Ministry of Justice 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 Ministry of Justice
✨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!
