At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious, nutritious meals for pupils in a supportive school environment.
- Company: Whittingham C of E Primary School, a close-knit rural community.
- Benefits: Be part of a friendly team and make a real difference in children's lives.
- Why this job: Combine your passion for food with the joy of working with children.
- Qualifications: DBS check required; commitment to safeguarding and child welfare essential.
- Other info: Warm school visits encouraged; applications due by 9am on 23 February 2026.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 Β£ per year.
The Unit Manager at Whittingham C of E Primary School plays a key role in the daily life of our small, rural school. It is a role that combines professional pride in food preparation with the warmth of a close-knit school community, where contributions are genuinely valued. The school is situated in the village of Whittingham, just off the A697 and within easy reach of Alnwick, Rothbury, Wooler and Morpeth.
This role involves using high-quality produce to prepare delicious, well-presented meals and encouraging all children to enjoy a varied and healthy school lunch. You will be supported by a friendly and efficient staff team, fantastic pupils who value good food, and highly supportive parents. Visits to the school are warmly welcomed.
Responsibilities- Prepare meals using high-quality produce to create nutritious, varied, and well-presented school lunches for pupils.
- Contribute to a positive dining environment and work with a friendly, efficient staff team and supportive parents.
- Represent the school with professionalism and uphold the values of safeguarding and welfare for children and young people.
- Maintain compliance with safeguarding requirements and undertake an enhanced criminal records check as part of the appointment process.
- Enhanced criminal records check (DBS) is required for this post.
- The school expects all staff to support safeguarding and the welfare of children and young people.
- Applicants should ensure referees are available to provide references prior to interview.
Further information about the school can be found on the school website: whittinghamprimaryschool.co.uk/website. Applications should be returned to the school by 9am on Monday 23 February 2026. Applications can be handed in or posted to the main school office or emailed to belinda.athey@whittingham.northumberland.sch.uk. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 3 March.
Catering Unit Manager (Non-Supervisory) - Whittingham C of E Primary School in Alnwick employer: North East Ambition
Contact Detail:
North East Ambition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Catering Unit Manager (Non-Supervisory) - Whittingham C of E Primary School in Alnwick
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a look at Whittingham C of E Primary School's website and social media. Familiarising yourself with their values and community will help you connect during the interview.
β¨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for food! When discussing your experience, highlight specific examples of how you've prepared nutritious meals or created a positive dining environment. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
β¨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about teamwork! Since you'll be working with a friendly staff team, think of examples where you've collaborated effectively in the past. This will show you're a great fit for their close-knit community.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows your commitment to joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Unit Manager (Non-Supervisory) - Whittingham C of E Primary School in Alnwick
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Talk about your experience with high-quality produce and how you create delicious meals. We want to see that you care about what you serve.
Highlight Your Team Spirit: This role is all about working with a friendly team, so make sure to mention any past experiences where you've collaborated with others. We value a positive dining environment, and your ability to work well with staff and parents will stand out!
Be Professional and Personable: While we want to see your personality, it's also important to maintain a professional tone in your application. Balance your warmth with professionalism, especially since you'll be representing the school and its values.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to send your application to the right place! Whether you choose to email or hand it in, double-check that you've followed all the instructions. We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process!
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
β¨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the high-quality produce you'll be using in the role. Be ready to discuss your experience with meal preparation and how you ensure that meals are nutritious and appealing. This shows your passion for food and commitment to providing a great dining experience for the pupils.
β¨Emphasise Teamwork
Since you'll be working with a friendly and efficient staff team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive work environment in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the school's community-focused ethos.
β¨Showcase Your Values
The school values safeguarding and welfare, so be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these in your work. Share any relevant experiences or training you've had that demonstrate your commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for children.
β¨Engage with the Community
Research Whittingham C of E Primary School and its community. Mention any specific initiatives or values that resonate with you during the interview. This shows that you're genuinely interested in becoming part of their close-knit community and that you understand the importance of engaging with parents and pupils alike.