At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prepare and serve meals while ensuring food safety and hygiene standards.
- Company: Join the friendly team at St Michaels Primary School in Pontypridd.
- Benefits: Earn £13.05 per hour, enjoy part-time hours during term time.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow in a supportive and diverse workplace.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives through nutritious meals and a positive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking for large groups and strong communication skills.
Assistant Cook – St Michaels Primary School
Location: St Michaels Primary School, Pontypridd, CF37 1SP
Hours: Part‑time (20 hours per week), Term time only – 4 hours a day, usually 9.30am – 1.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Grade 3 – £13.05 per hour.
Type of contract: Permanent, Term‑time only.
About the role: Catering Services are looking for a self‑motivated and enthusiastic individual to undertake the role of Assistant Cook at St Michaels Primary School.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Cook in Charge with the daily preparation, cooking and serving of all meals, including awareness of pupils with allergens and the allergen procedure.
- Assist with the operation of the kitchen in accordance with legislation, policies and procedures in relation to food safety and health and safety.
- Assist the Cook in Charge with the accurate completion of all relevant paperwork, including the digital food safety management system.
- Maintain cleanliness and high standards of hygiene in all areas.
- Control and order stock and cleaning supplies, in accordance with policy and procedures.
- Cover for the Cook in Charge in the event of sickness or absence.
Qualifications and Personal Attributes
- Experience cooking for large volumes of customers.
- Good communication skills and a positive, action‑focused attitude.
- Enthusiastic with a logical and organised approach to planning.
- Ability to function effectively under pressure.
- Foster a positive safety culture and customer‑focused environment.
Contact: Central Catering Team – phone 01443 281141 or email CateringServices@rctcbc.gov.uk.
Protecting children and vulnerable adults is a core responsibility of all staff appointed to the Council. In addition, the successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced disclosure and barring service check.
The Council values diversity in its workforce and is committed to ensuring that no unlawful discrimination occurs on the grounds of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, transgender, including non‑binary identities, religion or belief or pregnancy and maternity.
Assistant Cook - St Michaels Primary employer: Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
St Michaels Primary School offers a supportive and inclusive work environment, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children through nutritious meal preparation. With part-time hours during term time, employees enjoy a healthy work-life balance while benefiting from opportunities for professional growth and development in a diverse community. Join us to be part of a team that values safety, hygiene, and a positive culture, ensuring every child receives the best care and support.
Contact Details:
Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook - St Michaels Primary
✨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 Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council 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 Assistant Cook - St Michaels Primary
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 Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council 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 Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
✨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!
