At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team to keep things clean and assist with food prep.
- Company: Be part of Hurstpierpoint College, a vibrant community with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, mental health support, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, full training provided, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a dynamic environment while learning valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong hygiene focus, reliability, and teamwork skills required.
The predicted salary is between 12.9 - 12.9 £ per hour.
Position: Kitchen Assistant
Location: Hurstpierpoint College, Hurst Street, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9JS
Pay: £12.90 per hour
Hours: 40 hours per week
Working Pattern: 5 out of 6 (Monday to Saturday)
Shift Time: 7:00am- 15:30pm, 11:00am - 19:30pm and 08:00am - 16:30pm business dependent
Driving Licence is required for this position.
Steeped in over 175 years of tradition yet constantly evolving, Hurstpierpoint College is a vibrant and forward‑thinking community set in the heart of West Sussex. Founded in 1849 and still centred around its stunning early‑Gothic quadrangles, Hurst is now a thriving campus of 1,300 pupils and 480 staff, with state‑of‑the‑art facilities — including a fully refurbished catering operation completed in 2022. Joining our catering team means becoming part of a welcoming, ambitious college where history, innovation and community spirit come together every day.
What You Do:
- Clean heavy and small catering equipment to the required standard, following instructions and using the correct materials.
- Operate industrial dishwashers across all catering areas to support efficient service.
- Dispose of kitchen waste safely and correctly, ensuring all areas remain clean and organised.
- Maintain excellent hygiene and a safe working environment, completing 3 checks for safety and Near Miss cards.
- Assist with simple food preparation while taking care around dietary requirements such as nut, dairy or wheat allergies.
- Transport provisions and equipment between catering areas as needed to support the wider team.
What You Bring:
- Strong attention to hygiene — a commitment to keeping all kitchen areas spotless, safe and compliant with food safety standards.
- Reliability and consistency — turning up on time, supporting the team and maintaining high standards every shift.
- Ability to follow instructions — confidently using cleaning materials, equipment guidelines and safety procedures as trained.
- Team‑focused attitude — working positively with chefs, porters and catering staff to keep service running smoothly.
- Awareness of dietary needs — taking care when handling food for customers with allergies or special requirements.
- Commitment to safety — following the 3 checks for safety, reporting hazards and completing Near Miss cards to maintain a safe environment.
What We Offer:
- Unlimited access to an online platform offering mental health and wellbeing support.
- Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or larger problems where you may need additional support, including legal and financial advice and support with work‑related or personal issues such as bereavement.
- Access to a free health and wellbeing app that provides rewards for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and includes access to a 24-hour virtual GP and various other services.
- The Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 (also open to friends and family) and/or the prepayment cashback card.
- Money insights and financial benefits via the Salary Finance Platform.
- Save for your future by becoming a member of the Sodexo Retirement Plan.
- A death in service benefit for colleagues who pass away while employed by Sodexo.
- Opportunities for growth and success throughout your career at Sodexo, including a variety of learning and development tools.
- Cycle to Work Scheme to help colleagues contribute to the environment while keeping fit.
- Volunteering opportunities to enable all colleagues to support worthwhile causes in our communities.
- A flexible and dynamic work environment.
- Competitive compensation.
- Full training and full protective uniform supplied.
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and/or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland).
Note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.
Kitchen Assistant in Hassocks employer: Sodexo Group
At Hurstpierpoint College, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Kitchen Assistant, you'll enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive training, and access to a wealth of employee benefits, including mental health support and opportunities for personal growth. Join our vibrant community in West Sussex, where tradition meets innovation, and make a meaningful impact every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant in Hassocks
✨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 Sodexo Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo Group 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 in Hassocks
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 Sodexo Group 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 Sodexo Group
✨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!
