At a Glance
- Tasks: Support meal preparation and service in a supportive SEND school environment.
- Company: Specialist SEND School in South West London with a caring culture.
- Benefits: Excellent pay, full-time hours, no weekends, and dedicated support.
- Other info: Opportunity for valuable experience in a specialist educational setting.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on students' lives while working in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering or hospitality, and a caring approach to students.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
Starting September 2026, Timeplan are working with a specialist SEND School in South West London, supporting children and young people with a range of special educational needs. We are currently looking to recruit a full-time Catering Assistant to join the school from September 2026.
The successful candidate will support the school's catering team with the day-to-day preparation and service of meals for students and staff. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working as part of a team and would like to work in a supportive school environment.
You will be expected to assist with basic food preparation, serving meals, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, and ensuring the dining area and kitchen are kept organised throughout the day. As this is a specialist SEND setting, the successful candidate will also need to demonstrate a patient, caring and understanding approach when working around students with additional needs.
Ideal Candidate:
- Previous experience working in a catering, kitchen or hospitality environment is desirable
- Previous experience working within a school or SEND setting would be advantageous
- Good understanding of food hygiene and kitchen health and safety
- Able to follow food preparation and hygiene procedures
- Reliable, punctual and well organised
- Friendly, approachable and able to work well as part of a team
- Patient and comfortable working around children and young people with additional needs
- Enhanced DBS registered on the Online Update Service
Benefits to you:
- Excellent rates of pay
- Full-time, long-term opportunity
- Monday to Friday working hours
- No weekend or evening work
- Dedicated support from your Timeplan consultant
- Valuable experience working within a specialist SEND environment
- Opportunity to make a positive difference within a school community
Timeplan is a committed Equal Opportunities Employer and therefore will not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation.
If you are a Catering Assistant, Kitchen Assistant or Catering professional looking for a rewarding Monday-Friday role within a school environment, we want to hear from you! Please submit your CV today or contact our education recruitment team for more information.
Catering Assistant - SEND School - South West London employer: TimePlan Education
TimePlan Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development, making it an ideal place for both Early Career Teachers and seasoned educators. Located in Northampton, the supportive academy environment fosters collaboration within a dedicated Science department, ensuring that teachers can inspire their students while also growing in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - SEND School - South West London
✨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 TimePlan Education. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to TimePlan Education
Don't be shy about reaching out to TimePlan Education 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 Catering Assistant - SEND School - South West London
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 TimePlan Education 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 TimePlan Education
✨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!
