At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prepare and serve delicious meals in a busy school kitchen.
- Company: Join a supportive and friendly academy trust focused on student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Opportunities for training, development, and a positive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community that values inclusivity and respect.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' daily lives through quality food.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking, teamwork, and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
The Mirfield Free Grammar is looking for a passionate and reliable Assistant Cook to join our friendly catering team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-quality food to our students while being part of a supportive and forward-thinking academy trust. As part of Great Heights Academy Trust, you’ll be joining a community that values positivity, teamwork, and helping every individual reach their full potential.
About the role
You’ll support the day-to-day running of our busy school kitchen, helping prepare and serve nutritious, appetising meals for students and staff.
Key responsibilities
- Preparing, cooking, and presenting meals to a high standard
- Supporting the production of savoury snacks and main meals
- Serving food during busy service periods
- Helping plan menus and maintain food quality within budget
- Managing stock, deliveries, and food rotation
- Ensuring food hygiene, allergen awareness, and safety standards are always met
- Keeping your workspace clean, organised, and efficient
You’ll be a vital part of the team, ensuring every meal served is something students can enjoy and rely on.
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for someone who is enthusiastic, dependable, and enjoys working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Essential
- Experience of cooking to a good standard
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Good communication skills
- Basic maths skills (for portions, stock, etc.)
- Reliable, punctual, and flexible approach
Desirable
- Experience in a catering or school kitchen environment
- Food hygiene qualification
- Catering or first aid qualifications
If you enjoy cooking, take pride in your work, and want to make a difference to young people, we’d love to hear from you.
Why join us?
- Be part of a supportive and welcoming school community
- Work in a role with real impact on students’ daily lives
- Join a growing, ambitious multi-academy trust
- Opportunities for training, development, and progression
- A workplace that promotes wellbeing, respect, and teamwork
If you’re ready to bring your skills and enthusiasm apply today and help us create a positive dining experience for every student.
Great Heights Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to related online content checks, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check as well as satisfactory references. Great Heights Academy Trust strives to be an employer of choice. We are an inclusive and diverse multi academy trust and ultimately, our aim is to employ a workforce that reflects the communities it serves. We are committed to achieving a balanced workforce at all levels, whilst ensuring that no individual is disadvantaged or treated less favourably. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, faiths and ethnicities and will ensure a fair recruitment process without discrimination, in compliance with the Equality Act 2010.
Assistant Cook employer: The Mirfield Free Grammar
At Great Heights Academy Trust, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member can thrive. As an Assistant Cook, you'll not only contribute to the well-being of our students through nutritious meals but also benefit from opportunities for professional development and progression within our growing multi-academy trust. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a workplace that values teamwork, respect, and the welfare of all staff and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook
✨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 Mirfield Free Grammar. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Mirfield Free Grammar
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Mirfield Free Grammar 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 Assistant Cook
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 Mirfield Free Grammar 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 Mirfield Free Grammar
✨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!
