At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our busy kitchen team to prepare and cook delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Institute of Technology, a vibrant place to work with a focus on community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a local government pension, term-time working, and health-related perks.
- Other info: Great training opportunities and free early morning coffee/tea await you!
- Why this job: Make a difference by providing healthy meals in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale catering and a passion for healthy eating required.
Job Description
Cook in Charge - Institute of Technology
Hours: 37 hours a week, term-time only (38 weeks)
Salary: £25,322 pro-rata (actual salary £21,572 per annum)
Location: Institute of Technology
Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) is one of the very best colleges in the country. In October 2024 we became the first and only further education provider in England to achieve a full set of outstanding grades in consecutive Ofsted Inspections. This includes recognition of our strong contribution towards meeting Local Skills Needs under the latest version of the Education Inspection Framework (EIF).
The inspection report praised all areas of the College's provision and acknowledged NSCG's ?staff are professional, friendly, incredibly supportive and work tirelessly to meet the needs of learners' ?teachers improve their practice based upon the support they receive' and ?teachers create highly supportive, calm and highly aspirational environments in which learners and apprentices thrive'.? In summary, NSCG is a great place to work and study.
To read the full Ofsted report for Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group, please visit the Ofsted Government website, select Find an Inspection Report and search for Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group.
The group is currently home to a population of over 6,500 full-time students with around 2000 adult learners and students on higher education programmes. We have over 1,500 apprentices where we work with over 850 individual employers. Our Sixth Form provision has a reputation for high academic achievement and excellence.
We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic, self- motivated and hardworking individual to join our successful team. Working at the Institute of Technology, duties include working in a busy kitchen, preparation and cooking a range of food items, service and sale of food to students and staff and stakeholders, Ordering and checking goods inward and keeping areas clean. Assisting with the supervision of a team of catering assistants.
To be successful, you will have previous experience of cooking in a large scale catering environment, ideally in education, and have a good understanding of providing healthy eating options. You will hold an Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate and NVQ Level 2 Food Preparation and Cooking or equivalent.
What's in it for you?
The college offers and excellent benefits package which includes:
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Term-time working
- Cycle to Work Scheme (Salary sacrifice).
- Excellent Training and Development Opportunities (supported with a dedicated budget).
- Staff parking available
- Health-related benefits including subsidised health scheme
- On site restaurant facilities and FREE early morning coffee/tea and toast
To apply for the role of Cook - IOT, please go to select ?Apply' to complete an online application form.
The closing date for completed applications: Sunday 2nd August 2026
This college is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All college based positions are subject to enhanced DBS check and are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sectors of the community.
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Cook in Charge employer: Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group
Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) is an outstanding employer, recognised for its exceptional support and professional development opportunities for staff. With a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative and aspirational work environment, NSCG offers generous benefits including 52 days of annual leave pro rata, excellent pension contributions, and dedicated training resources to help you thrive in your role as a Lecturer in Travel and Tourism. Located in Leek, this college not only prioritises the growth of its employees but also actively engages with local employers, ensuring a meaningful impact on the community and the future of education.
Contact Details:
Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Charge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen vibe! If you can, pop by the Institute of Technology and chat with the team. This shows your enthusiasm and gives you a feel for the environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along a portfolio of your best dishes or even a video of you cooking. It’s a great way to demonstrate your experience in a large-scale catering environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current staff on social media or at local events. They might give you insider tips or even put in a good word for you.
✨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 our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Charge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:Let us see your enthusiasm for food and cooking in your application. Share any experiences that highlight your love for preparing meals, especially in a busy kitchen environment.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your experience in large-scale catering, particularly in educational settings. We want to know how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Cook in Charge role.
Mention Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to include your Food Hygiene Certificate and any relevant qualifications like NVQ Level 2. This shows us you’re serious about maintaining a clean and safe kitchen.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of food items you'll be preparing and cooking. Research healthy eating options and be ready to discuss how you can incorporate them into your menu. This shows your passion for food and commitment to health.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be supervising a team of catering assistants, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in a busy kitchen environment and how you motivate others to maintain high standards.
✨Safety First!
Brush up on your Food Hygiene knowledge. Be prepared to discuss your Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate and any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to maintaining clean and safe working areas.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the kitchen's operations and the team dynamics. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
