Cook

Full-Time 12 - 16 £ / hour (est.) No working from home possible
Select Appointments

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Prepare and cook healthy meals for students in a vibrant school setting.
  • Company: Join a supportive school catering team dedicated to student wellbeing.
  • Benefits: Enjoy term-time hours, professional development, and a positive work-life balance.
  • Other info: Work in a friendly environment with opportunities for growth.
  • Why this job: Make a difference by promoting healthy eating habits among pupils.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering, food hygiene knowledge, and teamwork skills.

The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 £ per hour.

We are currently seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Cook/Chef to join our client's friendly and dedicated catering team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about providing nutritious, high-quality meals in a warm and welcoming school environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare and cook healthy, balanced meals for pupils and staff in line with school food standards.
  • Plan and manage daily menus, taking into account dietary requirements and allergies.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment in compliance with food safety regulations.
  • Support with stock control, ordering supplies, and managing kitchen budgets effectively.
  • Work collaboratively with catering assistants and wider school staff to ensure smooth service.
  • Promote healthy eating habits and contribute to a positive dining experience for pupils.

Essential Requirements

  • Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check – must be clear and current.
  • Previous professional catering experience within a school or similar educational environment.
  • Strong knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards (Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate minimum).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment.

Desirable

  • Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.
  • Menu planning experience.
  • First Aid training.

Why Join?

  • Supportive school environment with a strong sense of community.
  • Term-time working hours for a healthy work-life balance.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Contributing to the health and wellbeing of our pupils.

Apply Now to Vitaly at Select Recruitment!

Cook employer: Select Appointments

As a Health & Safety Administrator with our client in Thetford, you'll join a well-established and expanding business that values your expertise and attention to detail. With competitive salaries, immediate start opportunities, and a strong focus on employee growth and development, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact within the renewable energy and construction sectors. Enjoy the benefits of free on-site parking and the opportunity to work collaboratively across diverse projects while contributing to a company committed to maintaining the highest compliance standards.

Select Appointments

Contact Details:

Select Appointments Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Cook

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the catering industry or even at schools. Let them know you're on the lookout for a Cook position. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Get your hands dirty! Volunteer or do some trial shifts at local schools or community kitchens. This not only boosts your experience but also shows potential employers your commitment and passion for cooking in a school environment.

Tip Number 3

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes, menu plans, and any special dietary accommodations you've handled. This can really set you apart when chatting with hiring managers.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!

We think you need these skills to ace Cook

Culinary Skills
Menu Planning
Food Hygiene Knowledge
Food Safety Compliance
Stock Control
Budget Management
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for cooking and providing nutritious meals shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about creating a positive dining experience for pupils.

Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your previous catering experience, especially in a school or similar environment. We’re looking for someone who knows their way around a kitchen and can manage menus effectively.

Be Clear on Food Safety:Since food hygiene is crucial, mention your knowledge of food safety standards and any relevant certifications. We need to know you can maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you one step closer to joining our friendly catering team.

How to prepare for a job interview at Select Appointments

Know Your Menu

Before the interview, take some time to research and think about potential menus you could create for the school. Be ready to discuss how you would cater to different dietary requirements and allergies, as this shows your understanding of the role and your commitment to providing nutritious meals.

Showcase Your Hygiene Knowledge

Make sure you brush up on food hygiene and safety standards. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences with maintaining a clean kitchen and any relevant certifications you hold. This will demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to food safety.

Teamwork is Key

Since you'll be working closely with catering assistants and school staff, highlight your teamwork skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've collaborated in past roles to ensure smooth service, as this will show that you're a team player who can contribute positively to the school environment.

Passion for Healthy Eating

Express your enthusiasm for promoting healthy eating habits among pupils. Think of ways you can engage students in their dining experience, whether through fun menu ideas or educational initiatives. This passion will resonate well with the interviewers and align with the school's values.