school cook / catering assistant - papworth.

Do you have a passion for creating nutritious, delicious meals that fuel a student's day?

Are you a culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in maintaining the highest standards of food safety?

Are you looking for a stable, high-hour temporary role within a supportive educational setting?

Randstad is seeking a dedicated and reliable Cook / Catering Assistant to join a busy school kitchen team in Papworth until the end of the academic year (July 2026). This is a unique dual-responsibility role, perfect for someone versatile who is happy to lead at the stove for 40 hours a week and provide essential support as an assistant for 21.5 hours.

You will be joining a well-established catering team committed to providing high-quality service to students and staff alike. You'll play a vital role in the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring every meal is prepared with care and served with a smile.

What You'll Do:

• Lead Meal Preparation: Take the lead for 40 hours a week as a Cook, preparing and cooking a variety of menu items ensuring they are tasty, well-presented, and ready for the school lunch rush.
• Essential Kitchen Support: Dedicate 21.5 hours a week to catering assistant duties, including food prep, counter service, and ensuring the dining area is welcoming and clean for all students.
• Maintain Rigorous Standards: Strictly follow HACCP guidelines and food hygiene regulations to ensure a safe and compliant school kitchen environment at all times.
• Collaborate with Your Team: Work closely with other catering staff to ensure a smooth service, from stock rotation to kitchen cleaning and washing up.
• Uphold School Standards: Adhere to all school policies and procedures, including those related to safeguarding, health and safety, and student welfare.

We're Looking For:

A hard-working and experienced catering professional with a positive, "can-do" attitude and a commitment to child welfare.

• Mandatory Qualifications: You must hold valid Food Hygiene training and a solid understanding of HACCP principles.
• Proven Experience: Prior experience in a professional kitchen is essential; experience working within a school setting is highly ideal.
• Versatility: The ability to switch between lead cooking and assistant tasks seamlessly while maintaining high standards.
• Reliability: With 61.5 hours available per week, we need someone committed and punctual to support the full school schedule.
• Compliance: You must be willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check or have one on the update service.

What We Offer:

• A Rewarding Package: We recognise and value your expertise, offering a competitive hourly rate alongside a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being.
• A Truly Supportive Community: Step into a warm, welcoming environment where every team member is valued. You'll join a team that champions collaboration and a shared passion for providing excellent service to students.
• Share the Opportunity: Know someone else who'd be a perfect fit? Our Refer a Friend scheme gives you the chance to earn a £300 Love2shop voucher if your referral leads to a successful hire! (Subject to terms and conditions).

APPLY NOW through Randstad to discuss this exciting opportunity and secure your role for the rest of the academic year!

Randstad Education is the UK Market Leader for recruitment within education. We have been helping school support staff find temporary and permanent roles for nearly twenty years. Working with over 2500 schools each week, we can find the right match for your skills.