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- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals for students with unique needs in a supportive environment.
- Company: Specialist educational setting focused on nurturing and inclusive practices.
- Benefits: Pathway to permanent role, supportive team, and opportunity to make a difference.
- Why this job: Join a caring community and help nourish the minds and bodies of young learners.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2/3 in Food Preparation and Cooking and Food Safety certification required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on well-being and development of children.
The predicted salary is between 981 - 1207 £ per month.
We are seeking a dedicated and professional School Cook to join our specialist educational setting in Rossendale. Our school provides a high-quality learning environment for pupils aged 5-18 with complex social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The position is offered on a temporary-to-permanent basis for the right candidate, providing a clear pathway into a long-term role within a highly supportive environment. The successful candidate will play a vital role in our trauma-informed community, ensuring that every pupil receives nutritious, balanced meals within a safe and nurturing dining environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Menu Planning: Design and prepare high-quality, healthy menus in full compliance with School Food Standards.
- Special Dietary Management: Adapt meals to meet specific sensory requirements and complex dietary needs.
- Operations and Safety: Manage food ordering, stock control, and kitchen budgets while maintaining meticulous Health and Safety and Food Safety records.
- Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to all allergen regulations and food hygiene legislation.
- Nurturing Environment: Contribute to the school's therapeutic approach by maintaining a welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the dining hall.
Candidate Requirements
- Essential Qualifications: NVQ or Diploma Level 2/3 in Food Preparation and Cooking.
- Certification: Current Food Safety in Catering Certificate (Level 2 or 3).
- Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of allergens, School Food Standards, and health and safety protocols.
- Experience: Proven ability in menu planning and kitchen management.
- Desirable: Experience working within a specialist school or SEND environment. Strong communication skills and a flexible, resilient approach to work. A commitment to the well-being and development of children and young people.
This position offers the opportunity to work within a supportive, inclusive team where relationships are at the heart of our practice. As this role involves working with vulnerable children, the successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and provide satisfactory references.
How to Apply
Please apply immediately with your CV or contact Jessica Verndet for more information regarding this position.
School Cook : Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn employer: TipTopJob
Contact Detail:
TipTopJob Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Cook : Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector or local community. You never know who might have a lead on a school cook position or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, whip up a sample menu or even a dish that showcases your culinary talents. Bring it along to interviews or share photos online to grab attention.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to schools in your area, especially those that cater to children with SEMH needs. Express your interest and let them know how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates who want to make a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace School Cook : Rossendale BB4 in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When writing your application, let us see your love for cooking shine through! Share any experiences that highlight your dedication to creating nutritious meals, especially in a school setting.
Tailor Your CV to the Role: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your qualifications, like your NVQ or Diploma, align with what we're looking for!
Highlight Your Experience with Special Dietary Needs: Since this role involves catering to pupils with complex dietary requirements, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have. This will show us that you're ready to adapt menus and meet our students' needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the types of meals you’ll be preparing. Research healthy menu options that comply with School Food Standards and think about how you can adapt them for specific dietary needs. This shows your commitment to providing nutritious meals tailored to the pupils' requirements.
✨Showcase Your Safety Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety regulations and allergen management. Bring examples of how you've maintained health and safety standards in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to manage a safe kitchen environment, which is crucial in a school setting.
✨Emphasise Your Experience with Special Dietary Needs
If you have experience working with children who have complex dietary requirements, make sure to highlight this. Share specific examples of how you’ve adapted meals or created inclusive dining experiences. This will resonate well with the interviewers, as it aligns with their focus on nurturing a supportive environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as handling a food allergy emergency or managing a busy lunch service. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident during the interview and show that you can think on your feet in a fast-paced environment.
