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- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious food from scratch using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Company: Join the National Trust, a leader in food and hospitality with 185 cafes across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like a substantial pension, discounts, flexible working, and free entry to National Trust sites.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team that values good food and inclusivity while making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: A passion for food, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn are essential.
- Other info: Complete an online assessment instead of a CV to showcase your strengths.
Do you have a passion for food? The National Trust is renowned for its food and hospitality. We run 185 cafes all over England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and we would love you to be a part of it.
Because we are in a rural area, please think about how you would be able to get here for work before applying for the job.
Benefits:We want to help you look after the things that matter to you, such as saving for your future, getting a discount on your weekly shop, or encouraging you to find a work-life balance. Please read our package below to see what benefits we offer you.
Hours:Working 37.5 hours per week, shift pattern is 5 over 7 daytime hours, with a mix of weekdays and weekends. There are no evening shifts.
Salary:£24,862.50 per annum
Duration:This is a permanent role which offers realistic salary progression based on annual reviews.
For this role, you will need to complete our online assessment instead of using a C.V. or online application form. This will help us understand more about your strengths and give you more information on the role.
What you will be doing:As a Cook, your focus will be in the kitchen, helping to prepare and present delicious food from scratch using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Your food will be served directly to visitors. Using the framework of our 'National Trust Cookbook', you will prepare, measure and mix ingredients. You will help with deliveries and with keeping the kitchen clean, to be compliant with health and safety legislation and to make sure that service runs smoothly.
We will give you an induction that fits the job, and training in allergens and food safety, plus any mentoring needed to help you in your role. You can sign up for further professional training and development if you wish.
Who we are looking for:We would love to hear from you if you are:
- Someone who loves good food and has a friendly and positive attitude.
- Confident about following recipes and batch-cooking, and willing to learn.
- Aware of health and safety compliance.
The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We are working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It is important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we are for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
Cook employer: The National Trust For Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty
Contact Detail:
The National Trust For Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Trust's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and local sourcing can help you align your passion for food with their ethos, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your culinary skills by preparing a dish that reflects seasonal ingredients. If you get the chance to discuss your cooking style during the assessment, this will demonstrate your creativity and ability to follow recipes while using fresh produce.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of health and safety compliance in the kitchen. Familiarising yourself with relevant regulations and best practices will show that you take food safety seriously, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider how you will commute to the rural location of the job. Having a clear plan for your transport will not only ease your own concerns but also demonstrate your commitment and reliability to the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what the National Trust is looking for in a Cook. Pay attention to the specific skills and qualities they value, such as a passion for food and health and safety compliance.
Prepare for the Online Assessment: Since the application process involves an online assessment instead of a traditional CV, take time to prepare. Familiarise yourself with common assessment formats and practice any relevant cooking scenarios or questions that may arise.
Showcase Your Passion: In your responses during the assessment, make sure to convey your enthusiasm for food and cooking. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your love for preparing delicious meals from scratch.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have previous experience in a kitchen environment, be sure to mention it during the assessment. Discuss your familiarity with following recipes, batch-cooking, and maintaining cleanliness in compliance with health and safety regulations.
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Trust For Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your love for cooking and food during the interview. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your enthusiasm for preparing delicious meals, especially using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the National Trust Cookbook
Before the interview, take some time to review the National Trust Cookbook if possible. Being knowledgeable about their recipes and cooking methods will demonstrate your commitment to the role and your ability to follow their guidelines.
✨Highlight Your Health and Safety Awareness
Since health and safety compliance is crucial in a kitchen environment, be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety regulations. Mention any relevant training or experiences that showcase your commitment to maintaining a clean and safe workspace.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the team dynamics, opportunities for professional development, or how they support work-life balance. It shows your genuine interest in the position and the organisation.
