At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team to prepare delicious meals and assist with service.
- Company: The Bishop's Table, a vibrant café in a historic setting.
- Benefits: Enjoy regular hours, 25 days annual leave, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and staff social events.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and make a difference in the community.
- Qualifications: 2 years experience in a busy kitchen and great communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We're looking for an experienced Kitchen Assistant to join the team and support the Kitchen and front of house. Full time or Part time hours are available. The Bishop's Table offers breakfast and lunch in the busy café plus there are several seasonal outlets in the grounds. As the Kitchen Assistant you will be working with the chef to prepare all the food to order. This will include preparation for the day, assisting with breakfast service, preparing sandwiches and then assisting with lunch service followed by kitchen clean down.
The team works day shifts, generally between 8.30am until 6.30pm on a rota basis. The café is open daily from 9.30am until 5.30pm. Occasional evening shifts may occur if a special event is taking place.
Responsibilities- Work alongside the chef and kitchen staff to prepare all food items to order.
- Prepare and garnish sandwiches, desserts, and other menu items.
- Assist with breakfast and lunch service duties.
- Perform cleaning and kitchen clean-down duties at the end of shifts.
- We're looking for someone with experience of working in a busy kitchen environment who can assist with food preparation, washing up, cleaning and being a vital member of a catering team.
- At least 2 years of experience working in a busy café/restaurant.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills and ability to work well under pressure.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety (or willingness to complete).
- Allergen Awareness (or willingness to complete).
Disability Confident employer: we will give an interview to any applicant who declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job.
Benefits- Day shifts with regular working hours.
- 25‑day annual leave (increasing with long service).
- Wellbeing support and access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
- Positive working environment.
- Staff social events.
- Free admission for yourself and a guest ticket.
- Opportunity to join the Palace Trust Pension scheme (minimum 12 % basic pay contribution).
- Opportunity to support the local community through volunteer days.
- Parking may be available.
- Opportunity to further learning and develop your career.
- We provide an induction and training plan for each employee from day one.
- Opportunity to work for an independent charity whose main aim is to share, preserve and protect the 800‑year Bishop's Palace, its medieval buildings, moat and spectacular gardens.
- We reinvest in the team and the site and work with local community groups and organisations as part of our community engagement.
Contact HR at The Bishop's Palace on 01749 988111 to discuss this role informally.
Kitchen Assistant / Cook employer: The Bishop's Palace
The Bishop's Table is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and positive working environment where team members can thrive. With flexible full-time and part-time hours, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow within the organisation while contributing to the preservation of the historic Bishop's Palace. Enjoy day shifts, staff social events, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant / Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the café's vibe! Before your interview, pop in for a coffee or a bite. This way, you can chat with the staff and get a feel for the atmosphere, which will help you stand out during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your food hygiene knowledge! Since they’re looking for someone with Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety, showing that you’re keen to learn or already have this qualification can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! In a busy kitchen, being a team player is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked well with others in past roles during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at The Bishop's Table.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant / Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your experience in busy kitchen environments. We want to see how you've handled food prep, service, and cleaning duties before. Share specific examples that showcase your skills!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take a moment to tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Mention your relevant skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for at The Bishop's Table.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and get straight to what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to provide all the necessary details in one go!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Bishop's Palace
✨Know Your Kitchen Basics
Brush up on your food preparation skills and kitchen hygiene knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience in a busy kitchen, including specific tasks you've handled, like preparing sandwiches or assisting with service.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well under pressure and as part of a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with chefs and other kitchen staff in the past to create a positive working environment.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food safety and allergen awareness. If you don’t have the certifications yet, express your willingness to complete them and highlight any relevant experience you have.
✨Ask About the Café Culture
Prepare some questions about the café's atmosphere and team dynamics. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to connect with the interviewers!