At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals while creating exciting menus for young people.
- Company: Join a brand new, state-of-the-art school dedicated to special educational needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full school holidays, medical cover, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace celebrating diversity and offering excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while working in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering preferred, but home cooks are welcome to apply.
The predicted salary is between 31192 - 38124 £ per year.
£20,051.83 (FTE £26,694.00) + Excellent benefits. Please note: the above salary is based on the successful candidate working 32 hours per week.
Being a cook in our school means being part of something big. You’ll be working at the heart of the school, preparing and serving tasty, nutritious food to our young people, staff and visitors.
You’ll be expected to follow food hygiene rules and keep health and safety in mind, but the key is to create varied menus that encourage our young people to try new food. You’ll help plan meals, taking into account any specific dietary requirements.
Opened in Spring 2026, Felden Hall School is a purpose built, brand new, state of the art school for up to 115 pupils. The school provides education for pupils aged 5 - 16 and caters to children with a wide range of needs including autism and social, emotional and mental health needs. This new exciting opportunity serves Hemel Hempstead and the wider communities, you are at the heart of its development.
We know you’re going to do great things. For your hard work and commitment, we reward you with the best salary and benefits package in the education sector. With us, you’ll get to bring learning to life and make a genuine difference to the lives of our young people – plus you’ll get:
- Training: A full induction and on the job training.
- Holiday: You’ll work hard at WG, so you’ll be rewarded with full school holidays.
- Flexible benefits: meaning you can increase/decrease benefits such as life insurance.
- Wellbeing: a host of wellbeing tools and advice including employee assistance.
- Medical cover: so you can claim back the cost of things like an opticians or dentist appointment and a host of high-street discounts.
- Beautiful working environments: with the very best facilities.
- A recommend a friend scheme: that offers a £1,000 bonus every time.
Our young people come from all walks of life, diverse backgrounds and with different needs – and our workforce reflects that diversity, so that our teams can engage, encourage and inspire our young people to be themselves.
The kind of person we’re looking for will:
- Have experience catering in a professional setting, but if you’re a competent home cook we’d still like to hear from you.
- Ideally have a basic Food Hygiene and Safety Certificate.
- Be hard working, friendly and dependable.
At Witherslack Group, inclusion is part of who we are. We’re committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and that they truly belong. As a specialist provider of education and care for children and young people with special educational needs, we understand the importance of embracing individuality and championing difference - especially when it comes to neurodiversity. We celebrate diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and the unique strengths that each person brings to our community.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. We are proud to be recognised as an inclusive employer and are committed to making our recruitment and workplace practices inclusive and accessible. If you need any adjustments to support you through the recruitment process or in the workplace, we’ll be there every step of the way.
By building a diverse and inclusive team, we’re better able to support the children, young people and families we serve and ensure every member of our team can thrive, grow, and be their authentic self.
The Witherslack Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check (we will cover the cost) and an online search. We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community.
Assistant Cook employer: Witherslack Group
At Queensmead House School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our young people. Located in a stunning historic setting with views of Windsor Castle, we provide extensive training, generous holiday allowances, and a comprehensive benefits package that prioritises your wellbeing and professional growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a rewarding environment that values diversity and encourages you to bring your whole self to work.
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 Witherslack Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Witherslack Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Witherslack Group 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 Witherslack Group 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 Witherslack Group
✨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!
