General Catering Assistant

We are currently recruiting for a General Catering Assistant to join our team at one of our independent schools in Ipswich. This is a term-time position, working 37.5 hours a week, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. Occasional evenings and weekends may be required to cater for school events.

Wilson Vale is an established, quality-led contract caterer. We work with amazing clients across the UK who place huge value on great food as a key part of their culture and community. We work in office restaurants, independent schools and at conference venues with the same high-end ethos throughout.

We are seeking a reliable and enthusiastic General Catering Assistant to join our busy school catering team of 11. This varied role supports both front-of-house service and back-of-house kitchen operations, helping to deliver high-quality meals to students, staff, and visitors in a welcoming and professional environment. The catering team provides a wide range of freshly prepared food, including hot and cold options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All meals are cooked from scratch on site, alongside desserts, self-service hot and cold buffets, and a served counter. In addition to daily service, the department delivers a significant level of hospitality for internal and external events, such as meetings, functions, and special occasions. This may occasionally require evening and weekend work, paid as overtime.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation of fresh food items under the direction of the Catering Manager or Chefs.
• Support the service of meals across multiple service styles, including counter service and self-service buffets.
• Provide friendly, efficient, and professional service to students, staff, and visitors.
• Set up and clear down dining areas and service points before, during, and after meal times.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the kitchen, counters, and dining areas.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and in accordance with training provided.
• Assist with dishwashing, cleaning duties, and correct waste disposal.
• Receive, check, and store deliveries in line with food safety procedures.
• Follow all food hygiene, allergen awareness, and health & safety regulations.
• Support the delivery of hospitality services for school events and functions.
• Work collaboratively with the wider catering team to ensure smooth and efficient service, particularly during busy periods.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Positive, friendly, and professional attitude.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Good communication skills and confidence interacting with students and staff.
• Understanding of basic food hygiene and safety practices (training can be provided).
• Reliable, punctual, and well organised.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in a catering or hospitality role.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate.
• Experience working in a school or similar environment.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and provide satisfactory references.

Additional Information

• Uniform and training will be provided.
• Opportunities for development and progression may be available within the catering department.
• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required to support events, paid as overtime.

WILSON VALE PERKS:

• Our working hours are some of the best you'll find in catering - we are strong believers in work-life balance.
• Our working environment is fun and inspiring, with excellent career development opportunities.
• Craft Works - Free craft-focused career development training programme.
• Paid training bespoke to you.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme - your wellbeing is very important to us.
• Online employee benefits scheme - monetary savings on everyday items!
• Your Birthday off every year after 1 years’ service.
• Enhanced Maternity Pay.

Wilson Vale is an equal opportunities employer that strives to create an inclusive working environment for all. We are committed to supporting our people and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. From each and every person in our catering teams, to our operations and central support teams - everyone has a voice.