At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prepare and serve food to pupils in a friendly school environment.
- Company: Join the warm and inclusive St Giles Spencer Academy team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive hourly wage and generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities to work across local schools.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for helping others.
Overview
Relief Catering Assistant – Spencer Academies Trust
Location: St Giles Spencer Academy, Hampshire Road, Derby, DE21 6BT, UK
Salary: NJC 2 (£12.69 Hourly) • Contract Type: Casual • Education Phases: Primary
Application Deadline: Friday, 17 October 2025 • Interview Date: TBC • Expected Start Date: ASAP • Visa Sponsorship: No
Is a Shared Job: No
About Us
St Giles Spencer Academy is an Outstanding Primary Special Academy in Derby City. We are a warm, friendly and inclusive academy which meets the needs of pupils with a range of special educational needs and disabilities. The Spencer Academies Trust is looking to appoint a reliable Relief Catering Assistant to start as soon as possible on a zero-hour contract. Main duties will include providing cover at St Giles Spencer Academy but also at other local schools within the trust, preparation, presentation and service of food to pupils. You must be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, be an effective team member and be calm and creative in your approach to working with pupils with additional needs.
Responsibilities
- Provide cover at St Giles Spencer Academy but also at other local schools within the trust.
- Preparation, presentation and service of food to pupils.
- Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, be an effective team member and be calm and creative in your approach to working with pupils with additional needs.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Relief Catering Assistant on a zero-hour contract (start as soon as possible).
- Ability to work flexibly to support school operations and catering needs.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through our Every Candidate Portal: https://candidates.every.education/Vacancies/Details?advertKey=d25b1977-a435-4f06-80b1-a8002868c77d. If you are a new user, click “Register” to create your candidate profile; if you already have a profile, click “Sign In”.
If you want to apply directly for this role and not save your data for any future vacancies, you can click the “Apply Now” button at the bottom of this page.
We have added a video to help guide you through our portal: https://vimeo.com/737845492/c1b8e43656
How to Visit
If you would like to visit St Giles Spencer Academy before the closing date, please contact the school via 01332 343039 or info@stgilesspencer.org.uk. Visits to the school are strongly encouraged.
Safeguarding, Diversity and Equality
Spencer Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including a DBS check and Level 2 Saf safeguarding training. The Trust and its member academies are committed to promoting equality and diversity in employment and education provision. Spencer Academies Trust is a Disability Confident Committed Employer.
Additional Info
Closing date for applications: Friday 17 October 2025 • Interviews will take place on: TBC • Early application is strongly encouraged as we reserve the right to interview and close the advert ahead of the closing date.
Benefits
Generous Local Government Pension Scheme, Employee Assist Programme and BHN Extras (Discount and Salary Sacrifice Schemes). For full details, see the Spencer Trust employee benefits page.
Relief Catering Assistant employer: Spencer Academies Trust
At Spencer Academies Trust, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive employer, offering a flexible Relief Catering Assistant role at our Outstanding Primary Special Academy in Derby. Our work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, ensuring that you can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with special educational needs. With benefits like a generous Local Government Pension Scheme and access to employee support programmes, we are dedicated to your professional growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Catering Assistant
✨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 Spencer Academies Trust. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Spencer Academies Trust
Don't be shy about reaching out to Spencer Academies Trust 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 Relief Catering Assistant
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 Spencer Academies Trust 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 Spencer Academies Trust
✨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!
