At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare nutritious meals and maintain a welcoming kitchen environment for our residents.
- Company: Join a family-owned care provider dedicated to kindness and respect.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour, generous holidays, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team atmosphere and great location in Petersfield.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of elderly residents every day.
- Qualifications: No prior kitchen experience needed; just bring your passion and reliability.
The predicted salary is between 13.45 - 13.45 £ per hour.
Join our friendly team at South Downs Care, located at Downs House, Petersfield.
Pay: £13.45 per hour (annual review) | Weekend Rate: £13.95 per hour
Hours: 35 hours per week | Rolling shift pattern (Monday – Sunday)
Make a difference every day as a Kitchen Assistant. Are you passionate about preparing great food and making a positive difference in people’s lives? We are looking for a caring and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our friendly team at Downs House, a welcoming 46‑bed residential care home. This is a rewarding opportunity to become part of a supportive team where the meals you prepare play an important role in supporting the health, wellbeing, and happiness of our residents. You will help create enjoyable dining experiences by preparing nutritious, home‑style meals in a warm and caring environment.
About SDR
At SDR, we provide personalised, high‑quality care in a warm and welcoming environment where residents can truly feel at home. We are a family‑owned care provider operating two homes, Downs House and Stroud House, set within the beautiful Hampshire countryside. Our values guide everything we do: Kindness, Dignity & Respect, Calmness, Creativity, Responsibility. These values shape how we care for our residents and how we support our teams.
About the role
As a Kitchen Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting the wellbeing of our residents by helping to prepare nutritious, home‑style meals and maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming kitchen environment. Working closely with our Chefs, you will help ensure meals are prepared and served to a high standard for both our residents and colleagues, contributing to a positive dining experience every day. Previous kitchen experience, particularly within a care home or similar setting, would be an advantage but is not essential. Most importantly, we are looking for someone who is reliable, caring, and takes pride in their work, with a willingness to support our team and make a difference to the people we care for.
What we offer
- Career development – Ongoing training and opportunities to develop your skills
- Generous holiday allowance – Equivalent to 29 days including bank holidays (pro rata)
- Pension scheme – Available where eligible
- Structured induction and probation support – Helping you settle into your role
- Supportive management team – Guidance whenever you need it
- Employee referral bonus – Earn £200 each upon appointment and a further £300 each after one year (T&Cs apply)
- Great location – Petersfield is easily accessible with regular train links from Waterlooville, Havant, and surrounding areas
Who we’re looking for
- Friendly, reliable, and enjoy working as part of a team
- Passionate about preparing food and supporting others
- Caring and sensitive to the needs of older people
- Creative and willing to contribute ideas
- Looking for a rewarding role where your work makes a difference
Apply Today
Email: careers@sdrgroup.co.uk
Call: 07484 482896
We are unable to offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have unrestricted right to work in the UK. A DBS check will be required following a successful offer. Early applications are encouraged as this vacancy may close once filled.
Kitchen Assistant | Elderly Care | Petersfield employer: SDR
At South Downs Care, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment where our Kitchen Assistants can thrive. With a focus on employee growth through ongoing training and a generous holiday allowance, we ensure that our team feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents. Located in the picturesque Petersfield, our family-owned care home fosters a culture of kindness, dignity, and respect, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant | Elderly Care | Petersfield
✨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 SDR. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to SDR
Don't be shy about reaching out to SDR 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 Kitchen Assistant | Elderly Care | Petersfield
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 SDR 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 SDR
✨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!
