At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals for children, supporting their health and wellbeing.
- Company: Join the friendly catering team at St Bede Academy.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, supportive environment, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and professional development in a rewarding role.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that promotes healthy eating and positive dining experiences for kids.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen and a passion for food and nutrition.
The predicted salary is between 24581 - 30043 £ per year.
Do you have a passion for food and enjoy making a difference to children's lives?
We are looking for an enthusiastic, reliable and caring Assistant Cook to join our friendly catering team at St Bede Academy.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys preparing nutritious meals, supporting healthy eating and creating positive dining experiences for children from Early Years through to Key Stage 2.
Working alongside colleagues across the school and our on-site nursery, Baby Bede, you will play an important role in preparing and serving high-quality meals and ensuring children enjoy food that is both nutritious and appealing.
If you are passionate about food, enjoy working as part of a team and take pride in delivering excellent service, we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
- Prepare, cook and serve meals for both the school and on-site nursery.
- Work with the Nursery Manager to help design and develop menus that are nutritious, varied and appealing.
- Support menu planning for both the school and nursery, helping to introduce new ideas and seasonal dishes.
- Develop an understanding of EYFS nutritional guidance to ensure our youngest children receive the best possible start.
- Support children with dietary, medical and allergen requirements.
- Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and food safety.
- Help reduce food waste and promote healthy eating across the school community.
- Provide catering support at other Trust schools when required.
We Are Looking For Someone Who
- Has experience working in a kitchen, catering or food preparation environment.
- Has a genuine passion for food and nutrition.
- Enjoys working with children and supporting their wellbeing.
- Takes pride in delivering excellent customer service.
- Can work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Is organised, reliable and flexible.
- Has a strong understanding of food hygiene and safe food handling practices.
- Is willing to learn and develop their knowledge of school and nursery catering requirements.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience
- Food Hygiene Level 2 (or equivalent).
- Experience within a school, nursery or care catering environment.
- Knowledge of School Food Standards.
- Knowledge of EYFS nutritional requirements.
- Experience contributing to menu planning and development.
What We Offer
- A welcoming and supportive team environment.
- The opportunity to make a real difference to children's health and wellbeing.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- A varied and rewarding role across both school and nursery settings.
- Access to Trust-wide support and professional development.
Why Join St Bede Academy?
At St Bede Academy, we believe that mealtimes are an important part of every child's day.
Our catering team plays a vital role in helping children develop healthy eating habits, providing nutritious meals and creating a positive dining experience that supports learning and wellbeing.
This is more than a catering role.
It's an opportunity to contribute to the health, happiness and development of our pupils while working in a supportive and rewarding school environment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Assistant Cook employer: St Bede Academy
St Bede Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a nurturing work environment, access to comprehensive training opportunities, and a strong leadership team, employees are empowered to thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students. Located in a supportive community, the academy offers flexible working options and a commitment to safeguarding, ensuring a rewarding and fulfilling career for all staff members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook
✨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 St Bede Academy. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to St Bede Academy
Don't be shy about reaching out to St Bede Academy 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 Assistant Cook
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 St Bede Academy 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 St Bede Academy
✨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!
