Cook

Required for September 2026, the Academy Council are looking for a reliable, enthusiastic and committed Cook to support the day-to-day running of our school kitchen and dining provision.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working as part of a team and takes pride in providing healthy, nutritious meals for children. You will help prepare, cook and serve meals for pupils and staff, support menu planning, maintain high standards of food hygiene and cleanliness, and contribute to a positive dining experience for our pupils

About the role:

• Permanent, 25 hours per week, term time only plus 5 additional days
• Salary NJC Grade B1, Scale Points 4-6, £26,016 - £26,846 per annum (full time equivalent)
• Actual Salary £15,086 - £15,567 per annum
• Hours of work 9.00 am to 2.00 pm Monday to Friday

The successful candidate will:

• Support the preparation and service of meals using fresh ingredients where possible
• Assist with food storage and stock control
• Complete daily checks and records
• Ensure that kitchen and dining areas are kept clean, safe and well organised

You will also help meet special dietary requirements where needed and work collaboratively with catering and lunchtime colleagues to ensure pupils experience a calm, safe and enjoyable lunchtime.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has an interest in food preparation, cooking and healthy eating
• Understands the importance of high standards of food hygiene, safety and cleanliness
• Is organised, reliable and able to work well as part of a team
• Can provide a friendly, efficient and professional service to pupils
• Is willing to undertake relevant training, including food safety and safeguarding training
• Will support the Catholic ethos of the school

Allergens and food safety

As this role involves the preparation and service of food to children, the successful candidate will be expected to follow all food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures, including the clear labelling of food prepared on site in line with current requirements, commonly known as Benedict’s Law. Relevant training will be provided where required.

What can we offer you?

• Support from an experienced and supportive team of staff
• Employee discount scheme (offering cycle to work scheme, gym membership, money saving offers across hundreds of the UK’s favourite high-street and online retailers, home and electrical items)
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (Education Support)
• On-site parking
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• A supportive organisation with the commitment to professional development and wellbeing.

Why join us?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving Catholic school where Christ is at the centre of all we do. At St Mary’s, our values of Unity, Respect, Joy, Love and Courage shape a culture in which children and staff are encouraged to flourish, achieve their potential and make a positive difference to others.

You will join a dedicated and supportive team committed to excellence in education and to nurturing the academic, emotional and spiritual development of every child. As part of our vibrant school community, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a shared vision that celebrates collaboration, inclusion and a genuine commitment to helping every child thrive.

Should you wish to make further enquiries about the post, please email Ben Ambler - BAmbler@sjfchs.org.uk in the first instance.

The Trust reserves the right to close the vacancy for applications or withdraw the vacancy at any time at its absolute discretion.

• Closing date: 26 August 2026, 12 noon
• Interview date: It is anticipated that interviews will take place shortly afterwards.

The Trust reserves the right to close the vacancy for applications or withdraw the vacancy at any time at its absolute discretion.

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to a satisfactory DBS enhanced disclosure certificate.

In line with KCSiE 2025 we will carry out an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates. This may help identify any matters that are publicly available online, which we might want to explore with you at interview.

This role is based in the UK. Employment is conditional on confirmation of the right to work in the UK-either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme or having secured any other relevant work visa. If you do not have the right to work in the UK, please consider carefully whether you meet the eligibility to apply.

We value diversity and seek a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.