At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals and create a positive dining experience for our students.
- Company: Join Wootton Park Academy Trust, a growing educational community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, professional development, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to innovate in a state-of-the-art school setting.
- Why this job: Be part of shaping the future of our new primary school and its learners.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking and a commitment to nurturing young minds.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Wootton Park Academy Trust is seeking to appoint a Cook for our new Primary School, Overstone Gate Primary School. This is a rewarding and important position within our growing school and trust. The position will be based at Wootton Park School from 1st September 2026 but move to the new school site at Overstone once the building opens. The cook will receive support and guidance from the Trust Catering Manager.
Working Pattern: 9am-2.30pm, Monday to Friday. Term time plus 5 Teacher training days and 5 deep cleaning days (40 weeks). As the school grows, the requirement for an earlier start may be discussed.
What We Are Looking For: Our ideal candidate will be inspirational and fully committed to securing the best outcomes and will ‘go the extra mile’ to achieve this for the Trust, the School and its learners, staff and stakeholders. All members of our team must be committed to maximising potential and continuous improvement, and be willing to participate fully in all aspects of school life. Our quest for excellence must be combined with an unwavering commitment to care, support and leadership. Therefore, anyone seeking appointment to this role must demonstrate warmth, humour, resilience and, above all, emotional intelligence in order to uphold the values and lead our School and represent our Trust.
We Can Offer You:
- Opportunity and freedom to innovate and lead
- Professional development following a coaching model
- Excellent future opportunities for staff as we grow our Trust
- An exciting, friendly and conscientious Trust environment
- Staff engagement activities across the Trust
- IT support
- Employee 24/7 confidential helpline
- LGPS Pension Scheme
Are you excited by this exceptional opportunity to be part of our new primary school where you can shape the curriculum and opportunities for children and staff? If so, we want to hear from you!
Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Candidates need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively in spoken and written English, including when completing required online training, to ensure the safety and welfare of pupils in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
In accordance with our statutory obligations under Keeping Children Safe in Education, Wootton Park Academy Trust is required to conduct an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates and offer of a position is subject to receiving satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS Disclosure. We are an equal opportunities employer. Please note we do not accept CVs and references will be applied for at the shortlisting stage.
Cook in Northampton employer: Overstone Gate Primary School
Wootton Park Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative environment for our Cook role at the new Overstone Gate Primary School. With a strong commitment to professional development, employee well-being, and a focus on community values, we provide opportunities for growth and engagement in a state-of-the-art facility designed for holistic learning. Join us in shaping the future of education while enjoying a friendly and conscientious work culture that prioritises both personal and professional fulfilment.
Contact Details:
Overstone Gate Primary School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Northampton
✨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 Overstone Gate Primary School. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Overstone Gate Primary School
Don't be shy about reaching out to Overstone Gate Primary School 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 Cook in Northampton
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 Overstone Gate Primary School 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 Overstone Gate Primary School
✨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!
