At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook nutritious meals while supporting offenders in skill development.
- Company: Join a dedicated prison catering team in Stoke-on-Trent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, and access to training programmes.
- Other info: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule with potential hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a difference by helping others improve their future employment prospects.
- Qualifications: Level 2 food production certificate and food hygiene certification required.
The predicted salary is between 29107 - 30648 £ per year.
The role is within the prison catering team in Stoke-on-Trent. Your main responsibility is to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, work within the safeguarding policies and oversee offenders to prepare and cook quality, nutritional meals for the entire prison while supporting them to learn new skills and improve their future employment prospects.
Responsibilities
- Safeguard children and uphold all safeguarding policies.
- Oversee meal preparation and cooking for offenders in a professional industrial kitchen.
- Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are met.
- Support offenders in developing skills and working towards qualifications.
Qualifications and Experience
Required qualifications
- Level 2 certificate in food production within hospitality and catering or equivalent.
- Food hygiene certificate at Level 2.
Additional requirements
- Familiar with health, safety and hygiene regulations for kitchen work.
- Demonstrated competency within an industrial kitchen environment.
- Proficient in spoken English.
- Completion of refresher food safety (HACCP) training at three‑year intervals.
Behaviours
- Developing self and others
- Managing a quality service
- Communicating and influencing
- Working together
Working Arrangements
Work a 37‑hour week Monday to Friday, core day hours only. Hybrid working may be offered where business need allows; the role must be based in the UK.
Compensation
Salary: £29,107 – £30,648 per annum.
Benefits
- Generous pension scheme (Civil Service).
- Bank, public and privileged holidays – 9 days (66 hours 36 minutes) added to annual leave.
- Season ticket advance after two months’ service.
- Access to training and development programmes (e.g. Equality and Diversity, Suicide Prevention).
- Probationary period: external candidates 6 months; internal candidates otherwise.
Eligibility
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. This role is open to:
- UK nationals.
- Nationals of the Republic of Ireland.
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries with right to work in the UK.
- Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre‑settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
- Individuals with limited or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible for EUSS on or before 31 Dec 2020.
- Turkish nationals and certain family members who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service.
Security Checks
Standard DBS check required.
Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Werrington employer: Ministry of Justice
Working as a Caterer at HMP Werrington offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of offenders while ensuring high standards of food safety and hygiene. The supportive work culture prioritises employee development through access to training programmes, and the generous benefits package, including a robust pension scheme and additional holidays, reflects the company's commitment to its staff's well-being. Located in Stoke-on-Trent, this role not only provides a stable work environment but also allows you to contribute positively to the community by helping individuals develop essential skills for their future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Werrington
✨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 Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Werrington
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!
