Catering Assistant

Terrington Hall is seeking to appoint a new Catering Assistant to join our small and friendly catering team.

The appointed person will be expected to work on a full time, term time only basis for 30 hours per week (actual hours to be agreed with line manager), plus 10 working days during school holidays by arrangement with the Bursar. This role is to support all catering operations at Terrington Hall School ensuring the delivery of high-quality, efficient, and effective catering services. This role demands strong communication and organizational skills, alongside a solid understanding of food safety, food preparation and service to consistently uphold our high standards in food quality, service, and presentation.

Key Responsibility/ Accountability

Kitchen Operations

• Assist in the smooth running of the school kitchen and catering functions

• Support in the preparation, cooking, and serving of food and beverages under the direction of the Catering Manager

• Help prepare the dining area, including setting up tables, chairs, and service trolleys

Hygiene & Safety

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety in all kitchen and dining areas

• Clean kitchen equipment, dining areas, and catering utensils daily as per school standards

• Always adhere to Health & Safety and food safety regulations

• Inform the Catering Manager of any defects in equipment, food safety concerns, or potential hazards

Food Service

• Prepare service areas, hot cupboards, and other equipment to ensure food is served efficiently and hygienically

• Assist in washing and loading dishwashers, cleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen surfaces

Independent Duties

• Be responsible for closing and locking up the kitchen and dining areas at the end of the day

• Maintain confidentiality and comply with Data Protection policies

Health and Safety

• Be aware of and implement health and safety responsibilities as an employee, including any additional specialist or managerial duties as per the Health and Safety policy

• Work with colleagues to maintain health, safety, and welfare in the working environment

• Support the safe use of equipment, report faults to management, and follow Health and Safety regulations

Equalities

• Ensure services are provided fairly to all sections of the community

• Work in line with the Equality Policy Statement, promoting equal opportunities for all employees

Training & Development

• Participate in relevant training and development to support personal and professional growth

• Stay updated on the latest catering procedures

General Responsibilities

• Carry out administrative tasks related to the role in a timely and accurate manner

• Work collaboratively with the Catering Manager, Bursar, Headmaster, and other staff to ensure effective service delivery

• Carry out other duties as required, adapting to changing school needs

Flexibility

• Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances as needed

• Comply with the school’s policies and procedures, acknowledging that duties may evolve to meet school demands

Additional Elements:

Child Protection and Safeguarding. 

 Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families has a role to play. To fulfil this responsibility effectively, all practitioners should make sure their approach is child related. This means that they should consider, always, what is in the best interests of the child. 

You must comply with Terrington Hall School’s Protection and Safeguarding Policy and Procedures and the requirement to report any concerns relating to the safety or welfare of children.

A safeguarding induction and ongoing safeguarding training will be provided.

Person Specification 

The successful candidate will demonstrate a combination of relevant qualifications, experience, and personal qualities aligned with the values and ambitions of Terrington Hall School.

Qualifications & Training

• Relevant catering qualifications or catering experience

• Committed to ongoing professional development (e.g., CPD, training in food safety and best practices)

• Willingness to attend staff meetings and engage in performance reviews

Experience & Knowledge

Essential:

• Proven success in a similar catering role

• Knowledge of food safety regulations, including HACCP principles

• Understanding of catering operations, food preparation, and cleanliness standards

Desirable:

• Experience catering for a variety of events, including school functions and large gatherings

People Skills

• Ability to work well within a team

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage tasks effectively

• Capacity to handle challenges and make decisions in a fast-paced environment

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to build relationships with pupils, staff, and external partners

• Collaborative and able to work effectively across various departments

Personal Attributes

• Positive, proactive, and solutions-oriented attitude

• High levels of energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the school’s success

• Role model of the school’s values, demonstrating honesty and integrity

• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to work evenings and weekends when required

Safeguarding and welfare of children 

The job holder’s responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for whom they are responsible, or with whom they come into contact with, will be to adhere to and always ensure compliance with the Schools’ Child Protection Policy Statement. If while carrying out the duties of the post the role holder becomes aware of any actual or potential risks to the safety or welfare of children in the School, they must report any concerns to the School’s DSL or the Headteacher. 

Terrington Hall School is committed to safeguarding and child protection and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures and a satisfactory Enhanced DBS with Barred List check.

Application process

Please complete an application form and self-declaration and send to hr@terringtonhall.com.

Applications close on the 20th March but we reserve the right to appoint beore this date.

Interviews the week of 23rd March.