At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our Hospitality and Catering Department with food and textiles projects.
- Company: Join a thriving, innovative school committed to student success.
- Benefits: Access to gym, swimming pool, and paid development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, supportive team, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in food and textiles preferred, but enthusiasm is key!
The predicted salary is between 18450 - 22550 £ per year.
Position Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Full-time/Part-time
Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 22/11/2026 Midnight
Date of Interviews: TBD
12.5 hours per week, Thursday and Friday 8.45 am to 3.30 pm, 39 weeks per year (Term time plus 1-week CPD)
Immediate Start Available
We are looking to appoint a Food and Textiles Technician to support our Hospitality and Catering Department, which also has oversight of Textiles, in a busy, highly experienced, friendly department. Both our Food and wider Design and Technology teachers and technicians are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and hardworking. The department has clear priorities for raising standards of performance and is committed to the improvement and development of all staff. We have recently developed our Hospitality and Catering course and offer a more vocational route for our students. There is a strong focus on improving the outcomes for all students with teachers and technicians planning together and sharing best practice.
We offer the following benefits:
- Newly built sports hall with fully fitted gym available for staff use
- Swimming pool available for staff use
- Banked cover/TOIL scheme allowing staff to build time to take some term time days off
- The Headteacher is passionate about staff workload and wellbeing and holds regular wellbeing meetings with staff
- We offer a significant number of paid development opportunities within departments and also across the school
At West Hatch, we believe in building strong relationships with students and going the extra mile to support students' successes both in and outside of school. The Governing Body is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share in the commitment. This appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check and positive references. Early applications are encouraged as we will review applications as we receive them; and applicants may be contacted before the closing date.
Information about the School:
West Hatch is a thriving, heavily oversubscribed innovative school. Proud of its success with significantly above average results and recently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, we are always striving for improvement. We are keen to appoint individuals with a positive outlook and a proactive attitude – colleagues who enrich the lives of the learners and staff with whom they work. We place great store on teacher development at all levels and offer a whole range of opportunities for colleagues to develop their leadership potential within and beyond West Hatch.
The Governing Body is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share in the commitment. This appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check and positive references. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Food and Textiles Technician in Chigwell employer: Shorefields
Shorefields in Chelmsford is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and compassion in caring for children with complex needs. Our new purpose-built school provides a unique setting where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying the benefits of working in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food and Textiles Technician in Chigwell
✨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 Shorefields. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Shorefields
Don't be shy about reaching out to Shorefields 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 Food and Textiles Technician in Chigwell
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 Shorefields 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 Shorefields
✨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!
