At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in delivering high-quality meals and dining experiences for residents.
- Company: Join a caring organisation dedicated to providing excellent food services for vulnerable adults.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, hands-on experience, and a chance to make a difference in residents' lives.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values compassion and quality in every meal served.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for food and helping others.
Reporting to the Head Chef the Kitchen Assistant is responsible for supporting the Head Chef to provide high quality of food service within the home.
The Kitchen Assistant will be part of the catering team ensuring the highest standards are achieved to meet the needs of the residents.
Head Chef Support & Dining Services
- Support the Head Chef to ensure the catering services and residential dining experience is of the highest standard and quality.
- Ensure that all regulatory and statutory requirements are met and company policies and procedures are adhered to.
- Promptly clear and prepare the dining room for the next meal service and ensure the area is clean, tidy and attractively presented. Including laying tables with clean linen, napkins, polished cutlery, glasses/beakers/mugs and condiments.
- Actively engage with residents in conversation related to their lifestyle choices at a level and pace that values the individual and respects their dignity and communication differences.
- Respond in a timely way to residents who are distressed or seek assistance if you feel unable to respond appropriately.
- Assist any resident in the dining room with any requests they may have, ensuring no resident feels in any way rushed or pressured to finish a meal.
- Liaise with Head Chef daily for menu changes and alternative dishes.
- Liaise with nursing staff, support workers and, where appropriate, residents for daily meal choices taking dietary considerations and preferences into account.
- Check with nursing staff for any resident appointments where a meal may need to be set aside or trips/excursions where the resident will not be requiring a meal.
- Inform the Head Chef immediately of any subsequent changes to meal choices made by residents and ensure, as far as possible, that all residents are provided with their choice.
- Check cupboards and fridges on all floors for items that belong in the kitchen.
- Ensure that all crockery, cutlery and glasses/beakers/mugs are clean, well maintained and stored correctly in the dining room.
- Clean, check and replenish juice dispensers for lunch and supper if required.
- Prepare fresh tea and coffee and replenish milk for the dining room for lunch and supper.
- Load trolleys with spare cutlery, trays and food containers for staff to take to floors. Add meals when Head Chef is ready, checking for specialist diets e.g. softs/puree. Clearly label plate cover with resident’s name.
- Provide refreshments for the residents and guests to the home. Prepare trolleys for afternoon tea/coffee and cakes. If required, deliver trolley to the Activities Room and Casbar. Serve hot drinks and then collect all dirty cups and crockery and return to dining room.
Catering
- Support the catering team in ensuring the nutritional content of the meals provided caters for the dietary needs of all residents and to have a good working knowledge of IDDSI and modified food textures.
- Assist the Head Chef with preparation of deserts, and other courses where required.
- Work with the Head Chef providing support in preparation of food, when required. This may include washing, peeling, chopping, cutting and cooking foodstuffs as well as helping to prepare salads and desserts and weighing of ingredients.
- Work as part of a team to provide cooked meals to residents in the absence of the Head Chef.
- Work as part of the team to ensure counter service is available to residents and staff to meet the highest standard and quality within the company policy and procedures.
- Supporting the Head Chef to ensure that all food safety Management procedures are completed as per the designated schedules already stipulated and that recording of all mandatory items are completed as per the company policies and procedures and within EHO and Food Standards Regulations.
- Ensure that the cleaning schedules are maintained according to company policies and procedures.
- Be able to receive, check and store deliveries correctly.
Health and Safety
- Ensure Health & Safety within the services team, residents and visitors meet the requirements of the Food Safety Manual and Health and Safety Manual.
- Attend all Health and Safety, food hygiene and COSSH training updates as required by the company to ensure that safe practices are adhered to at all times.
- Have a good working knowledge of safe storage and use of chemicals.
- Ensure regulations and compliance are met and adhered to.
- Ensure equipment and environment is safe within the kitchen and home.
- You will be required for this role to potentially lift heavy objects using the correct methods of manual handling.
General
This job description reflects the current main organizational priorities for the position. These priorities may develop and change in consultation with the post holder in line with needs and priorities of the business.
Working Conditions
- Rota is based on 7 days a week including weekends.
Safeguarding
Chaseley Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, employees and volunteers. All offers of employment with the trust are subject to pre-employment checks, including references, health, right to work in UK and a satisfactory Enhanced DBS.
Kitchen Assistant in Eastbourne employer: The Chaseley Trust
The Chaseley Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of both its residents and staff, fostering a supportive work culture in the beautiful coastal town of Eastbourne. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and encourage proactive leadership within our senior management team. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a fulfilling career in a nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant in Eastbourne
✨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 Chaseley Trust. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Chaseley Trust
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Chaseley Trust 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 Kitchen Assistant in Eastbourne
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 Chaseley Trust 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 Chaseley Trust
✨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!
