School Catering Assistant
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 9, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 24, 2026. Compass Fostering scores A on the Alion truth index.
About The Role
Main purpose
To provide a high-quality catering service which supports the wellbeing of pupils and staff. This includes meeting school catering and health and safety standards.
Duties and responsibilities
Meal planning and provision
- Oversee the provision of high-quality school meals in line with government guidelines and legislation on school nutrition standards
- Plan varied and nutritious menus in advance
- Negotiate best-value contracts with authorised suppliers to ensure the cost effectiveness of the catering service
- Manage food stocks to prevent shortages or excess supply and adhere to the catering budget
- Cater to special dietary requirements and ensure that allergy information is effectively communicated and labelled
Health and safety
- Ensure compliance with school catering standards legislation and the school’s food safety policy, health and safety policy, and allergens policy
- Ensure that the kitchen and dining area are kept clean and hygienic
- Ensure that kitchen equipment is used safely and according to operating manuals
- Ensure that kitchen and catering equipment is maintained according to the maintenance schedule
- Arrange for all necessary repairs to be carried out to ensure the safe running of kitchen equipment and remove any faulty equipment pending repairs. Where repair or replacement exceeds the agreed budget, discuss this with the Headteacher
- Ensure that catering staff are adhering to proper hygiene procedures, including wearing the correct uniform
- Record all accidents and incidents
Other areas of responsibility
Staff appointments
- Assist in the recruitment and selection of catering staff
- Carry out induction and training for new staff members
Safeguarding
- Work in line with statutory safeguarding guidance (including Keeping Children Safe in Education, Prevent) and the school’s safeguarding and child protection policies
- Promote the safeguarding of all pupils in the school
Person specification
Qualifications and training
Level 3 Food Safety (or NVQ equivalent)
GCSE or equivalent level in English and maths
Experience
Experience of working in a school kitchen or equivalent:
Experience of menu planning and pricing
Experience of recording and managing stock
Experience working with young people and those with SEMH
Experience of writing and presenting reports (e.g. financial reports, incident reports)
Skills and knowledge
Wide knowledge of culinary production and strong culinary skills
Knowledge of legislative requirements for:
School catering
An understanding of the routines and challenges of catering in a school environment
Good literacy and numeracy skills
Good organisational skills
Ability to multitask and work effectively in a stressful environment
Strong leadership and teamwork skills
Strong customer service skills
Personal qualities
Sensitivity and understanding, to help build good relationships with colleagues, pupils and staff
Commitment to promoting the ethos and values of the school
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality
Commitment to safeguarding pupil wellbeing and equality
Resilient, positive, forward looking and enthusiastic about making a difference to children and young people
Skills
General Skills - SEMH, General Skills - Leadership