At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prepare and serve meals, ensuring a positive lunchtime experience for children.
- Company: Join the supportive team at Harrow Gate Primary Academy, part of Enquire Learning Trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy a welcoming environment, professional development, and access to pension schemes.
- Other info: Full training provided; perfect for those with catering or hospitality experience.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while working in a fun school setting.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills and a passion for supporting children's wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 33865 - 41391 £ per year.
Working Hours: 16.25 per week
Working Weeks: 38.4 weeks a year
Salary Scale Range: NJC 3 - £9,549.77 pro rata
Contract Type: Permanent
Start Date: As soon as possible from September 2026
Location: Piper Knowle Road, Stockton on Tees, TS19 8DE
About us
Harrow Gate Primary Academy is a well-established primary school located in Hardwick, Stockton-on-Tees, serving children aged 2–11. The academy is part of the Enquire Learning Trust, a collaborative network of schools that promotes high-quality teaching, professional development, and shared expertise. The school is recognised for its inclusive and supportive environment, where every child is valued and encouraged to succeed. Its mission is “to raise the achievement and aspirations of every child,” a principle that underpins all aspects of school life. Harrow Gate Primary Academy was judged ‘Good’ overall by Ofsted (June 2024), with ‘Outstanding’ for personal development, reflecting its strong commitment to pupils’ wellbeing, behaviour, and growth.
Benefits of Working at Harrow Gate Primary Academy
- Supportive and collaborative environment – staff work within a strong team ethos, placing children at the centre of everything they do.
- Strong leadership and professional development – access to continuous professional development and opportunities through the Enquire Learning Trust.
- Positive school culture – a welcoming, inclusive, and community-focused environment that values staff wellbeing and contribution.
- Focus on relationships and wellbeing – an emphasis on nurturing positive relationships, which enhances both staff satisfaction and pupil outcomes.
- Modern facilities and resources – well-equipped learning environments supporting high-quality teaching and learning.
- Additional benefits – access to pension schemes, mentoring, and a strong sense of belonging within a “family” atmosphere.
About the role
Harrow Gate Primary Academy is looking to appoint a reliable, enthusiastic and hardworking Catering Assistant to join our school team from September 2026. This is a permanent, term-time based role working as part of our catering provision. The successful candidate will support the preparation, serving and clearing away of meals, helping to ensure that children receive a safe, positive and enjoyable lunchtime experience each day.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the preparation and serving of meals to pupils and staff.
- Set up and clear away dining areas before and after meal service.
- Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and health and safety.
- Wash and store kitchen equipment, utensils and crockery.
- Support the safe storage and handling of food in line with food safety regulations.
- Provide a friendly and welcoming service to children, staff and visitors.
- Monitor dining areas and help create a positive lunchtime environment.
- Report any health and safety concerns, equipment faults or accidents to the Catering Manager or relevant supervisor.
- Follow all school and Trust policies and procedures, including safeguarding, food hygiene, confidentiality and health and safety requirements.
- Work effectively as part of the wider school team and undertake other reasonable duties as directed.
The Ideal Candidate Will
- Have good communication and teamwork skills.
- Be reliable, punctual and flexible.
- Enjoy working in a busy school environment.
- Be committed to supporting the wellbeing of children.
- Have an understanding of food hygiene and health and safety requirements (training can be provided).
- Take pride in maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming dining environment.
This role would suit someone with catering, hospitality or kitchen experience, although full training will be provided for the right candidate.
Working arrangements Monday to Friday
DBS/Safeguarding Statement
The Enquire Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As this post involves access to children or vulnerable adults, the successful applicant will be required to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure from the DBS.
Closing date and time Thursday 27th August 2026 at 15:00
Interview Date Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Contact Details
Harrow Gate Primary Academy
Piper Knowle Road
Stockton-On-Tees
TS19 8DE
Principal: Mrs Vicky Galt
Telephone: 01642 673984
Email: enquiries@harrowgateacademy.org
Catering Assistant - Harrow Gate Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust) employer: Stockton Academy Vacancies
North Shore Academy, part of the Northern Education Trust, is an excellent employer that prioritises a safe and supportive work environment for its staff. With a strong commitment to professional development and opportunities for career progression within the family of schools, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to a positive learning atmosphere for students. The flexible working arrangements and comprehensive support programmes further enhance the appeal of joining our dedicated cleaning team.
Contact Details:
Stockton Academy Vacancies Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - Harrow Gate Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust)
✨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 Stockton Academy Vacancies. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Stockton Academy Vacancies
Don't be shy about reaching out to Stockton Academy Vacancies 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 Catering Assistant - Harrow Gate Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust)
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 Stockton Academy Vacancies 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 Stockton Academy Vacancies
✨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!
