Catering Assistant

We are seeking to appoint a Catering Assistant to join Maiden Erlegh School. This role will support the effective daily operation of the school’s catering provision through the preparation, cooking and service of food, alongside related catering and cleaning duties. The postholder will work under the direction of the Catering Manager and Chef and will help ensure that students can access a clean, safe, efficient and welcoming dining environment during the school day. As a Disability Confident employer , we want to ensure everyone can perform at their best when applying to work with us. If you need any support with your application or adjustments during the selection process, please contact our People Team by emailing hr@maidenerleghtrust.org or calling 0118 929 6020. Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will: Assist with the preparation and service of food. Support the preparation of food and catering areas so that food service runs safely, efficiently and in line with expected standards. Serve food in an efficient and friendly manner. Follow catering procedures, hygiene expectations and cleaning routines accurately. Maintain standards when handling kitchen equipment, tableware and catering areas. Support the supervision of students in the dining area. Contribute to a calm, safe and orderly dining environment. Interact with students, colleagues and visitors in a respectful, friendly and professional manner. Wash up kitchen equipment and tableware. Clean dining areas, kitchen premises and kitchen equipment. Work in line with school and Trust policies, procedures and expectations. The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will have: NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. A Food Hygiene qualification, or willingness to undertake training. Good interpersonal and communication skills. The ability to use tact, sensitivity and diplomacy when dealing with others. The ability to organise their own time, prioritise tasks and meet deadlines in a catering environment. Good attention to detail when maintaining standards and following procedures. The ability to support positive behaviour and follow school expectations when working in areas used by students. The ability to maintain clean, safe and hygienic kitchen, dining and equipment areas. A cooperative, professional and student-focused approach. Maiden Erlegh School (MES) Maiden Erlegh School is a highly successful comprehensive school for students aged 11-18 , located in Lower Earley, near Reading. Relationships between students and staff are extremely positive, and students are keen, curious, respectful and ambitious. Academic outcomes continue to improve year on year, with the school placing in the top 50 schools nationally for Progress 8 , alongside a thriving sixth form. Staff are dedicated professionals who go the extra mile to support students to achieve their best. The school offers strong professional development oppor