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- Tasks: Support our chef in preparing and serving meals for students in a calm, friendly environment.
- Company: Join a new SEND school dedicated to kindness and understanding.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and discounts on everyday essentials.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and a passion for working with SEND students.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team shaping a new school culture.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Assistant Cook in a new SEN provision
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract Type: Permanent, part-time, term time only
Hours: hours per week: (negotiable)
Hourly rate: £.ph - £. per hour
Actual annual salary: £,. - £,. dependent on experience
Start Date: As soon as possible
Aurora Vincent House School has opened a brand new SEND Secondary School for autistic young people. We are a happy school that values kindness and understanding where everyone feels safe. Most of our students come from mainstream education to access an adapted National Curriculum delivered in small classes with a focus on meeting their sensory needs and support for their emotional wellbeing.
The Role:
We are looking for an Assistant Cook to support our chef in our school kitchen. The service provided by what the students call ‘Roberto’s Restaurant’ is fantastic and is a key element of our school’s offer. Lunch is a relaxed, calm, social time and students are given a range of options where we positively support those students who may struggle with their dietary choices and requirements. Within your role, you would be expected to support this approach by establishing a positive relationship with the children. The Assistant Cook will work closely with the Chef to prepare, cook and serve meals at lunch time. They would also aid cleaning the kitchen area afterwards. There is the expectation for the Assistant Cook to support the very occasional evening event too when possible. Experience and skills are important, but the right mindset and enthusiasm are vital.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Experience in a reactive catering environment with appropriate qualifications (L2 award in Food Safety in Catering & certificate in hospitality and catering principles)
- Able to work proactively and in a self-sufficient way
- Good communication skills with adults and students
- Working knowledge of health & safety legislation including COSHH, manual handling and food hygiene procedures and requirements in relation to food preparation
- A high standard of personal hygiene
- Good understanding of cleaning schedules
Candidates must:
- Be able to cover the duties of the chef if the chef were absent
- Be able to follow strict instruction on how to support students who may have anxiety around eating and may struggle with eating disorders
- Have good spoken English that the students can clearly understand
- Have a passion to work in SEND and willingness to keep learning
- Be able to follow safeguarding instructions
- Have the empathy and resilience to work with young people who may experience high anxiety and may have self-harming behaviours, ARFID and disordered eating, and a range of mental health difficulties
We offer:
- The time, support and training for you to prioritise safeguarding and the overall wellbeing of all students
- A rare opportunity to be part of a team developing a new school and culture that will change the lives of many young people and their families within the community
- An exciting time to be part of Aurora and a unique career opportunity to make your mark on our growing services
If you are interested, we strongly recommend you contact us to arrange an informal talk or school tour with the Chef and Headteacher. Our priority is appointing an Assistant Cook with the right mindset and potential alongside their core skills within the kitchen.
Benefits and Additional Information:
What’s on Offer at Aurora?
- Grow with Us – Training & Development: We offer a wide range of training programmes and career development opportunities to help you build your skills and reach your goals
- Save Money on Everyday Essentials: Discounts on groceries, phone plans, internet, dining out, gym memberships & more
- Access to our Cycle to Work and Car Scheme
- Access Wagestream – a financial wellbeing app that helps you track earnings, save, get expert money advice, and even access part of your pay early when needed
- Competitive Pay & Reward: Enhanced Annual Leave, Company Sick Pay, Enhanced Pension, Life Assurance
- 24/7 GP Access – For You & Your Household: Book a phone or video appointment anytime, day or night
- UK Health Cash Plan: Cover everyday healthcare costs like dental and optician bills
- Employee Assistance Programme: Get confidential support on a wide range of issues, including freephone counselling (available 24/7)
- Refer a Friend – Earn £1,000!
How to Apply:
You can apply online by completing our online application form. For more information on this position please contact us.
Assistant Cook in Horsham employer: The Aurora Group
Contact Detail:
The Aurora Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around the area or check out their website. Understanding their ethos and values will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! If you can, do a mock interview with a friend or family member. Focus on how you’d handle specific situations in the kitchen or with students. This will boost your confidence and help you articulate your passion for working in SEND.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! When you meet the team, let your enthusiasm shine through. They’re looking for someone with the right mindset, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your approach to cooking and working with young people.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional, and it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Cook in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working in SEND shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of our students.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in catering or working with young people, especially those with special educational needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language that reflects your understanding of the role and the importance of supporting our students during mealtimes.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us at Aurora.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Aurora Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your food safety knowledge and any relevant qualifications. Being able to discuss your experience in a reactive catering environment will show that you're prepared and serious about the role.
✨Show Your Passion for SEND
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for working with young people, especially those with special educational needs. Share any personal experiences or insights that highlight your empathy and understanding of their unique challenges.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with both students and staff, it's crucial to communicate clearly and effectively. Consider role-playing common scenarios you might encounter in the kitchen to showcase your ability to connect with the students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the school's approach to supporting students with dietary needs and how you can contribute to creating a positive dining experience. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the well-being of the students.
