Cook

The Cedars Academy is an 11 to 18 academy in Birstall that is committed to exacting high standards, raising attainment and demanding creative excellence from its staff and pupils. At the Cedars Academy we are driven to ensure pupil success is at the core of all our work. We provide a vibrant and engaging curriculum which promotes the love of learning, and prepares young people for the next steps in their lives.

25 hours per week, 38.6 weeks per year – term time plus 3 set training days

Actual hours 9am-2pm Monday to Friday

Grade 6 point 9 Actual salary £15,400 (FTE £25,995)

We are seeking an enthusiastic, experienced and pupil-focused Cook to join our busy school catering team. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled catering professional who is passionate about delivering high-quality, nutritious food and outstanding service to young people and staff.

This position would suit an experienced cook who is looking to take the next step in their career, with opportunities to lead staff, contribute to menu development and support the continued growth of the catering operation.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

Support the Catering Manager in the daily operation of the school kitchen and catering service.

Lead by example, maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation and customer service.

Plan, prepare and deliver nutritious, appealing meals that meet the needs of students, staff and visitors.

Assist with menu planning, promotions and initiatives to increase meal uptake and customer satisfaction.

Supervise and support catering staff, ensuring effective communication and teamwork.

Ensure compliance with food hygiene, food safety, allergen and health and safety legislation.

Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering food and catering supplies from approved suppliers.

Help manage catering budgets and contribute to achieving financial and operational performance targets.

Respond positively and professionally to customer feedback and enquiries.

Support hospitality and special events catering across the school.

Deputise for the Catering Manager when required, including undertaking relevant administrative duties.

Promote healthy eating and support the implementation of the School Food Policy.

We are looking for someone who has:

At least three years' experience working and cooking within a catering environment.

A recognised catering qualification relevant to the role., with e xtensive knowledge of food safety, hygiene, allergens and current catering legislation.

Excellent communication and customer service skills.

Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills.

Strong organisational and planning abilities.

The ability to work effectively under pressure in a busy catering environment.

A positive, proactive and flexible approach to work.

A commitment to creating a safe and welcoming dining experience for students and staff.

Desirable Requirements

Experience in a similar supervisory or leadership role.

Experience of line managing or supervising colleagues.

Experience of successfully leading and developing a catering team.

Experience of working with young people or within an educational setting.

Knowledge of sales, marketing and promotional activities to increase catering uptake.

We offer:

A supportive and welcoming school community.

Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

The chance to make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of young people.

Access to Trust-wide benefits and employee support programmes.

A rewarding role where no two days are the same.

All staff are responsible for the safeguarding and promotion of the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS clearance.

The Trust strives to be a diverse and inclusive place where all staff have a seat at the table: a seat to be free, a seat to inspire, a seat to challenge and a seat to succeed.

We currently have staff networks for staff who are Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer + (LGBTQ+), staff who would describe their background as working class and staff with a disability.

We encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close applications early if we receive a high volume of applicants. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check.