At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create delicious meals and serve them with a smile in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Heathcote School & Science College, a supportive and community-focused institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy family-friendly hours, free meals, and access to wellbeing support.
- Other info: Great opportunity for personal growth in a fun, fast-paced setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' daily lives while enjoying school holidays.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Catering Assistant to help us make every school day mealtime special. If you’re passionate about food, love working in a team, and thrive in a fast‑paced environment, this could be the perfect role for you.
Responsibilities
- As our Catering Assistant, you'll be part of the front‑line team that turns good ingredients into great meals and happy faces.
- Washing up crockery, utensils, and kitchen equipment using dishwashing machines (and occasionally elbow grease).
- Serving meals to students and staff with a smile.
- Helping the team with basic food preparation (chopping, peeling, mixing, plating, and garnishing).
- Assisting with deliveries – unpacking stock and storing it in the right places.
- Ensuring the service area is clean, tidy, and well‑stocked during lunch.
- Assisting with setting up and clearing down before and after service.
- Following food hygiene and safety standards at all times.
- Supporting the team wherever needed to keep service running smoothly.
- Completing any other reasonable requests given by your manager.
Qualifications
- Passionate about food and teamwork, thrive in a fast‑paced environment.
- Attention to detail – neat presentation, correct allergen labelling.
- Great communication skills with adults and young people.
- Reliability and good time‑keeping.
- Prior catering experience helpful but not essential – enthusiasm and willingness to learn are key.
What Makes This Role Special
- Make a real impact in a school community.
- Enjoy variety and hands‑on work.
- Work‑life balance that includes school holidays.
- Bring your ideas, creativity, and energy to the table.
Benefits
- Family‑Friendly Hours: Term time only, so you can enjoy school holidays too!
- Weekends Off: Monday to Friday.
- Supportive Team Culture: You’re never just a number here.
- Free Meals on Duty.
- Wellbeing First: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme including free CBT, health, and financial support.
- Room to Grow: We believe in promoting from within and helping our people thrive.
Catering Assistant - Heathcote School & Science College - Chingford, London employer: Olive Dining Ltd
At Heathcote School & Science College, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values the contributions of our Catering Assistants. With family-friendly hours during term time, a supportive team culture, and opportunities for personal growth, you will find a rewarding environment where your passion for food and teamwork can truly shine. Enjoy the benefits of free meals on duty and access to wellbeing support, all while making a meaningful impact in our school community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - Heathcote School & Science College - Chingford, London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Heathcote School & Science College and understand their values and culture. This will help you connect with the team during your interview and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be serving meals to students and staff, being able to engage with them positively is key. Try role-playing with a friend or family member to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for food! During your interview, share any experiences you've had with cooking or food preparation, even if it's just at home. Your enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you're proactive and keen to join our team at Heathcote School & Science College.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant - Heathcote School & Science College - Chingford, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:Let us know why you love food and how it drives you to create great meals. Share any experiences that highlight your enthusiasm, whether it's cooking at home or helping out in a kitchen.
Highlight Teamwork Skills:Since we’re all about working together, make sure to mention any past experiences where you thrived in a team. We want to see how you contribute to a positive atmosphere and support your colleagues.
Attention to Detail is Key:We value neat presentation and correct allergen labelling, so don’t forget to showcase your attention to detail. Give examples of how you've ensured quality and safety in previous roles or projects.
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for us both, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Olive Dining Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the basics of food hygiene and safety standards. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your passion for food and commitment to maintaining a safe kitchen environment.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Prepare examples of how you've worked in a team before, especially in fast-paced settings. Highlighting your ability to collaborate and support others will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Bring Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for food shine through during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or ideas you have about making mealtimes special, as this role is all about creating happy faces!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school’s catering service and team culture. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to contribute to their mission of making every school day mealtime special.
