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- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals for students with unique needs in a supportive school environment.
- Company: Join a caring school dedicated to nurturing students aged 5-18 with SEMH needs.
- Benefits: Pathway to a permanent role, supportive team, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a trauma-informed community and help shape young lives through nutrition.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2/3 in Food Preparation, Food Safety Certificate, and kitchen management experience.
- Other info: Work in a welcoming atmosphere with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 950 - 1167 £ per month.
We are seeking a dedicated and professional School Cook to join our specialist educational setting in Rossendale. Our school provides a high-quality learning environment for pupils aged 5-18 with complex social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The position is offered on a temporary-to-permanent basis for the right candidate, providing a clear pathway into a long-term role within a highly supportive environment.
The successful candidate will play a vital role in our trauma-informed community, ensuring that every pupil receives nutritious, balanced meals within a safe and nurturing dining environment.
Responsibilities- Menu Planning: Design and prepare high-quality, healthy menus in full compliance with School Food Standards.
- Special Dietary Management: Adapt meals to meet specific sensory requirements and complex dietary needs.
- Operations & Safety: Manage food ordering, stock control, and kitchen budgets while maintaining meticulous Health & Safety and Food Safety records.
- Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to all allergen regulations and food hygiene legislation.
- Nurturing Environment: Contribute to the school's therapeutic approach by maintaining a welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the dining hall.
- Essential:
- Qualifications: NVQ or Diploma Level 2/3 in Food Preparation and Cooking.
- Certification: Current Food Safety in Catering Certificate (Level 2 or 3).
- Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of allergens, School Food Standards, and health and safety protocols.
- Experience: Proven ability in menu planning and kitchen management.
- Experience working within a specialist school or SEND environment.
- Strong communication skills and a flexible, resilient approach to work.
- A commitment to the well-being and development of children and young people.
This position offers the opportunity to work within a supportive, inclusive team where relationships are at the heart of our practice. As this role involves working with vulnerable children, the successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and provide satisfactory references.
How to ApplyPlease apply immediately with your CV or contact Jessica Verndet for more information regarding this position.
Email: jessica.verndet@randstad.co.uk
School Cook - Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn employer: Randstad Education
Contact Detail:
Randstad Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Cook - Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research their values and approach to education, especially around SEMH needs. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! If you can, whip up a few healthy meals that align with the School Food Standards. Bring photos or even samples to your interview to showcase your menu planning abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your experience with special dietary needs. Think of examples where you've adapted meals for different requirements, as this is crucial for the role. Show them you can create a nurturing dining environment!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace School Cook - Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When writing your application, let us see your love for cooking and how it aligns with our mission. Share any experiences that highlight your dedication to providing nutritious meals, especially in a school setting.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of School Cook. Highlight relevant qualifications like your NVQ or Diploma in Food Preparation and Cooking, and any experience you have with menu planning or working in a SEND environment.
Be Clear About Your Experience: In your application, clearly outline your experience with food safety and allergen management. We want to know how you've handled these responsibilities in the past, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our supportive team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Education
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with menu planning and the specific dietary needs of children. Be ready to discuss how you would create nutritious meals that cater to various requirements, especially for those with complex social, emotional, and mental health needs.
✨Showcase Your Safety Knowledge
Highlight your understanding of Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations. Prepare examples of how you've maintained safety standards in previous roles, as this is crucial in a school environment where children’s well-being is paramount.
✨Demonstrate Your Nurturing Approach
Since the role involves creating a supportive dining atmosphere, think of ways to convey your nurturing side. Share experiences where you’ve contributed to a positive environment, especially in settings with vulnerable individuals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, like accommodating a child with severe allergies or managing a busy kitchen during lunch hours. Practise your responses to show your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
