At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to prepare and serve nutritious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Join the Witherslack Group, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Up to £25,583 salary, full school holidays, medical cover, and high-street discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace celebrating diversity and supporting personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives through food and care.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Food Safety in Catering and menu planning experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Being a cook in our school means being part of something big. You will be working at the heart of the school, preparing and serving tasty, nutritious food to our young people, staff and visitors.
You will supervise a skilled team and plan nutritious menus for our young people. You will also need to make sure that the school meets food hygiene regulations and nutritional standards. Being a cook in charge at our schools means you will get to build fantastic relationships with all of our staff and young people, by doing what you do best.
We are proud to announce our plans to expand the Secret Garden school opening in the Autumn of 2026. This will take the form of a purpose-built, state-of-the-art primary campus and will cater for up to 40 pupils with a wide range of needs, including autism and social, emotional, and mental health needs. Our aim is to ensure that every pupil will continue to receive an outstanding educational experience, with individual progress, care, and wellbeing at the centre of everything we do.
For your hard work and commitment, we reward you with the best salary and benefits package in the education sector. With us, you will get to bring learning to life and make a genuine difference to the lives of our young people plus you will get:
- Training: A full induction and on the job training
- Holiday: 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: Claim back the cost of things like an opticians or dentist appointment
- Beautiful working environments: With the very best facilities
- Recommend a friend scheme: 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 are looking for will:
- Have a Level 3 qualification in Food Safety in Catering (or equivalent)
- Be organised and have the ability to plan menus
- Have experience budgeting for each meal and ordering in bulk
At Witherslack Group, inclusion is part of who we are. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and that they truly belong. 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.
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.
Cook in Charge in London employer: Witherslack Group
Witherslack Group is an exceptional employer located in Wythenshawe, dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for professionals passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salaries and extensive training opportunities, ensuring that our employees can grow both personally and professionally while celebrating the small victories of our students together.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Charge in 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 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 Cook in Charge in 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 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!
