Food Service Assistant

6 Month Contract With A Local Authority

To support the delivery of a high-quality school catering service, ensuring pupils and staff receive safe, nutritious and well-presented meals in a clean and welcoming environment.

The postholder will assist with food preparation, serving meals, maintaining hygiene standards and supporting the smooth operation of the school kitchen and dining areas. The role requires a customer-focused approach and an understanding of working within a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation and serving of meals and refreshments.
  
• Set up dining areas and food service stations before service periods.
  
• Serve food to pupils, staff and visitors in a friendly and professional manner.
  
• Ensure food is presented attractively and served at the correct temperature.
  
• Assist with basic food preparation tasks as directed by catering supervisors.
  
• Clear tables and maintain cleanliness in dining areas.
  
• Wash dishes, utensils, kitchen equipment and catering areas.
  
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and cleanliness.
  
• Comply with food safety, health and safety and school procedures.
  
• Safely store food and catering supplies.
  
• Assist with stock rotation and replenishment of catering items.
  
• Dispose of waste appropriately and maintain recycling procedures where applicable.
  
• Support pupils appropriately within the dining environment.
  
• Report maintenance issues, equipment faults or safety concerns.
  
• Work collaboratively with catering colleagues and school staff.
  

Requirements

Essential

• Previous experience within catering, food service, hospitality or school catering environments.
  
• Good communication and customer service skills.
  
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  
• Understanding of food hygiene and cleanliness standards.
  
• Reliable and punctual approach.
  
• Ability to undertake manual handling and standing for extended periods.
  
• Awareness of health and safety requirements.
  
• Enhanced DBS clearance.
  

Desirable

• Experience working within a school or Special Educational Needs (SEN) setting.
  
• Food Hygiene Certificate.
  
• Experience serving large volumes of meals.
  
• Knowledge of allergen awareness and food safety procedures.
  
• Experience working with children and young people.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Bracken Hill Special School, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, NG17 7HZ
  
• Hours Per Week: 16.25 Hours
  
• DBS Requirement: Enhanced DBS Required
  
• Payment Frequency: Bi-Weekly Payments