Kitchen Assistant in Kilsby

We are looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Old Buckenham Hall School. You'll join the Catering Team in producing and serving nutritious meals to children, staff and visitors, contracted to 35 hours per week. Our ideal candidate will have a positive and enthusiastic attitude with a willingness to learn, a good understanding of hygiene and safety practices in a food preparation environment.

In a kitchen environment, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. A caring and patient nature with a genuine interest in supporting children is needed, and you must be physically fit for the demands of the role, including lifting and carrying. Previous experience in working in a kitchen is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation and service of nutritious meals for children, staff and visitors.
• Support the Catering Team in daily kitchen operations and maintain safe, hygienic work practices.
• Work both independently and as part of a team; communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
• Show care and patience in supporting pupils as part of the school environment.
• Adhere to hygiene, safety, and safeguarding policies at all times.

Qualifications and Skills

• Positive, enthusiastic attitude with willingness to learn.
• Good understanding of hygiene and safety practices in a food preparation environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Physically fit for the demands of the role, including lifting and carrying.
• Previous kitchen experience is beneficial.

Safeguarding and Compliance

All staff, contractors, volunteers have a responsibility and duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils. Staff must be aware of the systems within the School which support safeguarding and must act in accordance with the School's Safeguarding & Child Protection policy and Code of Conduct. Staff will receive appropriate child protection training which is regularly updated.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply: Please register and complete an application via our recruitment portal. Previous applicants need not apply. Closing date: 22 April 2026. Applications will be considered upon receipt and we reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date. Therefore, an early application is strongly advised.

Notes

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are key facets of our core ethos that 'the Whole Person is the Whole point'. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or age.

Recruitment Agencies

We have a team of internal recruiters and advertise our vacancies to attract candidates and not agency suppliers. If we need agency assistance, we will reach out to our trusted partners. Any speculative CVs we receive will not be accepted as an introduction.