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- Tasks: Help prepare healthy meals and maintain hygiene standards in a school kitchen.
- Company: Join a supportive primary school dedicated to nurturing children in Stockton-on-Tees.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's dining experiences while working in a friendly team.
- Qualifications: Experience in a school kitchen and knowledge of food hygiene are essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a focus on collaboration and high standards.
The predicted salary is between 1000 - 1400 £ per month.
Further Information
- Ref: ELTNOV2513
- Working Hours: 20
- Working Weeks: 39
- Salary Scale Range: NJC5-6, Actual salary £11,956.18
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Start Date: 5th January 2026 (or as soon as possible)
- Location: Hardwick Green Primary Academy, Tithe Barn Road, Stockton, TS19 8WF
About us
Hardwick Green Academy is a welcoming primary school in Stockton-on-Tees, serving a diverse community. We pride ourselves on creating a calm, supportive environment where every child can flourish. Our school values RESPECT – Resilience, Empathy, Self-awareness, Positivity, Excellence, Communication, and Teamwork – and we expect all staff to model these every day. Working with us means joining a friendly, forward-thinking team in a modern building with excellent facilities. We value collaboration, positivity, and high standards, making Hardwick Green a great place to work and grow.
About the role
As the Assistant Cook at Hardwick Green Academy, you’ll work in our school kitchen alongside the Cook to prepare healthy, nutritious meals for our pupils. Your day-to-day tasks will include helping with food preparation, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and ensuring meals are served on time. You’ll play an important role in supporting the smooth running of the kitchen and contributing to a positive dining experience for our children.
What we are looking for
We’re looking for someone with experience working in a school kitchen who can work efficiently as part of a team. You’ll need to be organised, reliable, and able to follow instructions to support the Cook in preparing meals. Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards is essential, along with a positive attitude and commitment to providing healthy, nutritious meals for children.
What we can offer
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Opportunities for development and progression
- Employee Assistance Programme provided by Health Assured
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Octopus EV Scheme
- Lifestyle savings
Working arrangements
The role is 20 hours per week which consists of four hours a day (9:30am – 1:30pm) five days a week (Monday – Friday).
For more information, please contact Alix Brown (Academy Business Manager) on 01642 677968.
How to apply
You can apply for this position by visiting The Enquire Learning Trust.
Closing date and time: Friday 12th December 2025 @ 12 noon
Interview Date: Wednesday 17th December 2025 (morning)
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.
Assistant Cook - Hardwick Green Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust ) employer: Stockton Council
Contact Detail:
Stockton Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook - Hardwick Green Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust )
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Hardwick Green Academy and understand their values and community. 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
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local community groups. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they look for in an Assistant Cook.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to food hygiene and teamwork. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills and how you embody the school's values of respect and collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the modern working environment at Hardwick Green Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Cook - Hardwick Green Primary Academy (Enquire Learning Trust )
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let us know why you love cooking and how you can contribute to providing healthy meals for our pupils. A sprinkle of enthusiasm goes a long way!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous experience in a school kitchen or similar environments. We want to see how your skills align with our need for someone organised and reliable.
Emphasise Teamwork: Since you'll be working closely with the Cook and other staff, it's important to showcase your ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through The Enquire Learning Trust website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stockton Council
✨Know Your Kitchen Basics
Brush up on your food hygiene and safety standards before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you maintain cleanliness and organisation in a kitchen setting, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is key in this role, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others in a kitchen or similar environment. Highlight your ability to follow instructions and support your colleagues.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Nutrition
Prepare to talk about your commitment to providing healthy meals for children. Share any experiences or ideas you have about nutritious cooking that aligns with the school's values.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the school’s approach to meal planning or how they incorporate feedback from staff and students. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school community.
