At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our catering team to prepare and serve food while keeping the kitchen clean and hygienic.
- Company: Penk Valley Academy Trust, dedicated to providing excellent education and support.
- Benefits: Access to career progression, CPD opportunities, gym discounts, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Team player with good customer care skills; previous catering experience is a plus but not required.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
Penk Valley Academy Trust is looking for committed individuals to join our Catering teams, with vacancies available at Penkridge Middle School and The Rural Enterprise Academy starting in September 2026. The successful candidates will assist with basic preparation of food, serving children at the snack bar with cash sales, and supporting the wider team. You will also be instrumental in helping to keep the kitchen running smoothly by ensuring everything is clean, tidy, safe, and hygienic.
Key responsibilities:
- Working as part of the catering team at the school to provide a friendly, efficient, and hygienic service to all stakeholders
- Assist in the preparation of food and snacks for the school
- Counter service and till work
- Cleaning of all equipment and catering areas
What we are looking for:
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Ability to work under pressure and use own initiative
- Good customer care skills
- Previous catering and food preparation experience would be desirable but full training will be provided
Employee Benefits:
- Access to first class CPD opportunities
- Genuine opportunities for career progression - with 7 schools within the academy
- Professional assistance - access to an Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension - automatic enrolment into Local Government Pension Scheme
- Discounted gym memberships
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Free will writing service
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and responsibility. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. All staff working in the School during the school day will have contact with children and will therefore be in regulated activity.
The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the School is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are 'spent' unless they are 'protected' under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
Catering Assistants in Stafford employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistants in Stafford
✨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 WMJobs. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to WMJobs
Don't be shy about reaching out to WMJobs 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 Assistants in Stafford
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 WMJobs 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 WMJobs
✨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!
