At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals for residents with diverse needs in a supportive environment.
- Company: Join The Cedar Foundation, a caring organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, free parking, and a commitment to staff development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Food Hygiene or equivalent, plus experience in a professional kitchen.
The Cedar Foundation is seeking to recruit a Cook for Living Options at Twisel Lodge, Holywood.
Location: 19A Church Avenue, Holywood, BT18 9BJ
Salary: £13.45 per hour
Hours: 30 hrs per week (6 hours per day x 5 days per week - Monday - Friday flexibility on these days would be considered.)
Twisel Lodge in Holywood Co. Down, is a residential home, registered with RQIA to provide services for 8 adults who have Learning Disabilities and associated complex needs. For most of our residents, Twisel Lodge is their home; however, as part of the eight-person service, we also provide a respite facility through which adults with learning disabilities can come and stay with us for a break. This service provides an opportunity for the main carers to get a break from caring duties and enables them to refresh and continue their caring role.
The Role: The Cook provides meals, snacks and refreshments for residents with a range of needs in a small residential home. They will prepare meals in line with individual resident care plans and be responsible for health and safety within the kitchen.
Benefits:
- Annual Leave: 5.6 weeks days pro rata in each leave year (inclusive of statutory days). This increases to 6.6 weeks after 5 years' service and 7 weeks after 10 years' service.
- Cedar offers an enhanced auto-enrolment pension scheme consisting of 5% employee contribution and 4% employer contribution.
- Occupational Sick Pay Scheme.
- Free on-site parking.
- Free tea and coffee.
- Investor in People accredited organisation with a commitment to development of the staff team through training and learning opportunities.
- Recognition & reward incentives aligned to high standards of performance.
- Access 24/7 Doctors Line.
- Health Cashback scheme.
- Special offers at over 600 leading high street and online retailers.
Essential Criteria:
- Hold a minimum of Level 2 Food Hygiene or equivalent catering certificate & 6 months' experience of food preparation in a Commercial/professional kitchen environment OR Minimum of 1 year's experience as Cook preparing food in a Commercial/professional kitchen environment.
- Experience maintaining kitchen hygiene and safety standards.
- Proven ability to work independently.
- Experience of planning regular menus and overseeing the ordering and maintaining of kitchen supplies.
Desirable Criteria:
- A basic understanding of planning and preparing varied healthy meal plans for individuals in a care environment, who may require S.a.L.T recommendations.
Closing Date: 3RD July 2026 at 10am
THE CEDAR FOUNDATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER. Please note - At present The Cedar Foundation does not offer Sponsorship.
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Cook in Bangor employer: The Cedar Foundation
The Cedar Foundation is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. Located in the serene setting of Twisel Lodge, Holywood, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and access to continuous training opportunities, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of residents with learning disabilities. With a commitment to recognising high performance and providing a range of employee perks, The Cedar Foundation stands out as a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Bangor
✨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 The Cedar Foundation. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Cedar Foundation
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Cedar Foundation 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 Cook in Bangor
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 The Cedar Foundation 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 The Cedar Foundation
✨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!
