At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and snacks for students while considering their dietary needs.
- Company: Join a supportive school environment focused on autism awareness.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, sick leave, training, and a friendly workplace.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on students' lives through nutritious cooking.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and a passion for creating inclusive meals.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and professional development in health and social care.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic Head Cook to join our Specialist School in Braithwell, Doncaster. You will be instrumental in providing breakfast, lunch, snacks and occasional hospitality service to our school. You will plan and write menus and provide nutritious and varied meals for our pupils whilst considering specialist and varied dietary requirements. You will have a duty to plan and prepare these meals from ordering stock right through to the presentation to our pupils. High standards of hygiene and adherence to codes of conduct and guidelines are crucial to this role. You will have the ability to be flexible in your approaches. It is vital that you can maintain an environment where our pupils feel happy, safe and valued.
What we offer:
- Occupational sick pay
- Extensive induction with autism specialist training
- Fully paid for Care Certificate, which is essential for those wanting to pursue a career in health and social care
- Paid job-related qualifications during employment
- Free initial DBS Check
- Employer pension scheme
- Friendly and supportive work environment
- Refer a friend scheme worth £500
- Access to the Blue Light Card scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Paid maternity/ paternity/ adoption leave
Autism East Midlands is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from anyone interested in working with people with autism. We are also a Disability Confident Employer. If you meet the person specification criteria and are eligible for the Disability Confident scheme, we will guarantee you an interview – just let us know in your covering letter or in your email when you send us your application form. Either way don’t forget to tell us if you are applying under the Disability Confident scheme.
Autism East Midlands is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. If you’re a successful applicant you will need an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check, we will meet any initial costs.
Interviews will be held on Friday 19th December 2025.
SHS Braithwell is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and volunteers to understand and share this commitment. We have a shared commitment to develop a culture of respect, where discrimination is not tolerated. We welcome all applications, including those from under-represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Cook in Doncaster employer: SHS Braithwell
Contact Detail:
SHS Braithwell Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Doncaster
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research Autism East Midlands and understand their commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills and menu planning! Since you'll be responsible for providing nutritious meals, think about how you can showcase your creativity and flexibility in the kitchen. Maybe even prepare a sample menu to discuss during your interview!
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees if you can! They can give you insider tips on what the school is really like and what they value in a Head Cook. Plus, it shows initiative and can help you stand out from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the time to engage with us directly. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Doncaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When you write your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your experiences and what inspires you to create delicious meals, especially in a school setting. We want to see your enthusiasm for providing nutritious food that makes pupils happy.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your experience with menu planning, dietary requirements, and maintaining hygiene standards. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your qualifications and experiences without having to sift through unnecessary details. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Autism East Midlands!
How to prepare for a job interview at SHS Braithwell
✨Know Your Menu
Before the interview, take some time to research and think about menu planning. Be ready to discuss how you would create nutritious meals that cater to various dietary needs. This shows your enthusiasm and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Hygiene Standards
Hygiene is crucial in a cooking role, especially in a school environment. Be prepared to talk about your experience with food safety practices and how you ensure high standards in your kitchen. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe environment for the pupils.
✨Flexibility is Key
The job requires flexibility in approaches, so think of examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances in the kitchen. Share these stories during the interview to highlight your ability to handle unexpected challenges.
✨Create a Positive Atmosphere
Since you'll be working with children, it's important to convey how you can create a happy and safe environment. Think about ways you've engaged with young people in previous roles and be ready to share those experiences to show you can connect with the pupils.