At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to prepare and serve nutritious meals while supporting residents' wellbeing.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, a people-focused organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and gain valuable kitchen skills.
- Other info: Flexible hours, on-the-job training, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career in a supportive environment with real impact.
- Qualifications: A passion for cooking and a willingness to learn are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25948 - 25948 € per year.
Apprentice - Cook at Shearwater - fixed term contract for up to 15 months.
Salary: Apprenticeship grade: 25,948 p.a.
37 hours per week including release for study - working hours as agreed with the service.
As part of the application process, please answer the following questions on the personal statement section of the application form:
- Question 1: Why do you want to complete a Cook Apprenticeship at Shearwater, and how would your work support residents' wellbeing, dignity and safety?
- Question 2: Describe a time you followed instructions carefully and ensured safe, high-quality outcomes. Include how you would manage hygiene and allergens.
Your New Role:
You will be working towards the Level 2 Cook apprenticeship developing your skills through a mix of on-the-job learning and off-the-job training. You will support the cook and kitchen team to prepare and serve nutritious meals for residents, including modified diets and special dietary requirements, learning how menus are planned using seasonal produce, resident preferences and nutritional guidance, and contribute ideas as your confidence grows. In addition, you will be learning about working in a kitchen environment assisting with deliveries, stock rotation, use of kitchen equipment and safe storage of food and supplies. You will carry out cleaning duties following COSHH guidance and support the wider team with occasional events and celebrations.
Shearwater is a purpose-built 40-bed residential home in the Milton area of Portsmouth. The accommodation is located on the ground floor and first floor, all bedrooms have a private ensuite with a shower.
Who is the person summary:
With a genuine interest in cooking and learning new skills in a professional kitchen environment, you will have a positive, reliable approach with a willingness to follow instructions. A good attention to detail and good communication skills will be required, the ability to work as part of a team as well as a willingness to learn about allergens, special diets and IDDSI. Basic kitchen skills would be helpful as well as someone who is flexible and keen to learn and willing to undertake the apprenticeship qualification as well as any other job-specific training.
Additional Information:
Please also answer the 2 questions in the job advert - these can be added to your application form. We are not able to offer sponsorship for this position.
About Portsmouth City Council:
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people-focused. These values set out how we can contribute to the success of the council and our own success as individuals.
Our recruitment process:
Full information about our recruitment process can be found on our support for applicants' page. We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard. More information can be found at Equality, diversity and inclusion.
You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.
Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board safer recruitment procedures. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
You will need to explain any gaps in your career history within the last 5 years - this is essential for all safeguarding roles. Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact or call the recruitment team.
Apprentice - Cook - Portsmouth in Southsea employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture rooted in respect, integrity, and inclusivity. As an Apprentice Cook at Shearwater, you will benefit from hands-on training in a professional kitchen environment, with opportunities for personal growth and skill enhancement while contributing to the care of residents. The council's commitment to employee welfare and its status as a disability confident employer make it a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice - Cook - Portsmouth in Southsea
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen team and the environment before your interview. If you can, pop by Shearwater for a chat or a quick visit. It shows you're genuinely interested and helps you understand the vibe of the place.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice answering those personal statement questions out loud. Think about how your experiences relate to the role and be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and passion for cooking.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your enthusiasm! When you’re in the interview, let your passion for cooking and helping others shine through. Talk about why you want to support residents' wellbeing and how you plan to contribute to the kitchen team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about the role and the amazing work we do at Portsmouth City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice - Cook - Portsmouth in Southsea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When answering why you want to complete the Cook Apprenticeship at Shearwater, let your enthusiasm shine through! We love seeing genuine interest in cooking and how it can positively impact residents' wellbeing.
Be Specific in Your Examples:For the second question, think of a specific time you followed instructions carefully. We want to hear about the details that led to safe, high-quality outcomes, especially regarding hygiene and allergens.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we appreciate creativity, make sure your answers are clear and to the point. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role and how you can contribute to our kitchen team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your information correctly and can get back to you quickly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Why
Before the interview, think about why you want to complete a Cook Apprenticeship at Shearwater. Be ready to explain how your passion for cooking can support residents' wellbeing, dignity, and safety. This personal touch will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Prepare to discuss a specific instance where you followed instructions carefully. Highlight how you ensured safe, high-quality outcomes, especially regarding hygiene and allergens. This will demonstrate your ability to maintain standards in a kitchen environment.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Role
Research the responsibilities of a Cook Apprentice at Shearwater. Understand the importance of preparing nutritious meals, managing special dietary requirements, and following COSHH guidelines. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're proactive.
✨Practice Teamwork Scenarios
Since teamwork is crucial in a kitchen, think of examples where you've successfully worked as part of a team. Be prepared to discuss how you communicate and collaborate with others, as this will highlight your fit for the kitchen environment at Shearwater.
