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- Tasks: Support the childcare team by distributing meals and keeping the nursery clean.
- Company: Join YMCA, a charity dedicated to supporting communities and promoting inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, discounts on nursery fees, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a caring culture while making a positive impact on children's lives.
- Qualifications: Basic health and safety knowledge; food hygiene qualification preferred but training available.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and a friendly, supportive team environment.
25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days. Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per annum). 50% discount on nursery fees. Enhanced Maternity. Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum. Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, day camps. 30% discount on food in Cafes: Fairthorne, Eastleigh and Andover. Wellbeing assistance programme. Cycle to work scheme. Good quality resources and a modern environment. A welcoming, caring and supportive culture.
Job Purpose: The Kitchen/Cleaning Operative will support the childcare team over the lunch time period, distributing meals and maintaining the cleanliness of the nursery food settings. Meals are cooked off-site and delivered to the setting daily. This post does require some heavy lifting.
Main Duties & Responsibilities:
- At all times work within the YMCA Way.
- Taking delivery of meals, then distribute the meals and crockery between the setting’s rooms/age groups, ensure that special dietary needs are met.
- Ensuring that the food containers (from the previous day/s) are returned via the courier service in clean and tidy.
- Clear-down of the kitchens and dining area of the settings rooms (including but not limited to use of the commercial dishwasher, cleaning of all areas within the kitchen/dining areas and disposal of the rubbish).
- Ensure YMCA policies and procedures are followed at all times including, but not limited to, Safer Food Better Business (HACCP), COSHH, health & safety, and safeguarding.
- Administration duties such as monitoring supplies, highlighting any shortfalls to the line manager and ensuring security is maintained.
- Ensure you act in the interests of your own safety & the safety of others at all times.
- Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene, timekeeping, cleanliness and neatness.
- Undertake training and professional development.
- Anything else reasonably requested by the management of the charity.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Basic knowledge of health and safety.
- Knowledge of children and babies’ nutritional needs.
- Food hygiene qualification or willingness to train.
- Experience of working within a catering industry or childcare.
Personal Attributes:
- Able to work with minimal supervision.
- Ability to communicate effectively as part of a team.
- Remains focussed in a busy environment.
- A genuine enthusiasm for the work of YMCA, including willingness to step in and help others within the wider team.
- Friendly and approachable manner.
Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service. We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.
Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity that continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.
Kitchen Assistant employer: YMCA Fairthorne Group
Contact Detail:
YMCA Fairthorne Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the YMCA Way and their values. Understanding their mission and how they operate will help you align your responses during any interviews or discussions, showing that you're a good fit for their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience in catering or childcare when networking. Connect with current employees on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights about the role and the work environment, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your knowledge of health and safety regulations, especially those related to food hygiene. Being able to articulate this knowledge will demonstrate your readiness for the responsibilities of the Kitchen Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work in a team and communicate effectively. During any interactions, emphasise your friendly and approachable manner, as these personal attributes are crucial for the supportive culture at YMCA.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Kitchen Assistant position. Highlight any relevant experience you have in catering or childcare.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Emphasise any previous work in kitchens, food hygiene knowledge, or experience with children.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the YMCA's mission. Mention specific reasons why you want to work there and how you can contribute to their team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA Fairthorne Group
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Kitchen Assistant. Understand the importance of food hygiene, safety protocols, and how to cater to special dietary needs. This will show your potential employer that you are serious about the role.
✨Show Enthusiasm for the Charity's Mission
YMCA is all about supporting the community. Be prepared to discuss why you want to work there and how you can contribute to their mission. A genuine passion for their work can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
As a Kitchen Assistant, you'll be part of a team. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked with others, especially in busy environments. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and support your colleagues.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to health and safety, food hygiene, and handling heavy lifting. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to explain how you would handle specific scenarios in the kitchen or dining area.
