General Catering Assistant

Role: Preston School

Location: Yeovil

Start Date: January 2026

Hours: 30 hours a week - 8:30am - 2:30pm Term time plus 1 inset day

Salary: Grade 1 Scale 3 - 4 12.85 - 13.05 per hour (Grade 1 Scale Point 3-4) (FTE 24796 - 25185) actual salary 16695 - 17231

Preston School is a vibrant and inclusive secondary academy located in Yeovil Somerset. We are dedicated to providing an inspiring education and nurturing environment where every student can thrive. Our staff are passionate professional and committed to maintaining the schools high standards of care and achievement.

As part of this commitment we are seeking a motivated and reliable Catering Assistant to join our friendly catering team helping us deliver nutritious high-quality meals to our students staff and visitors.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

As a valued member of our catering team you will:

• Assist in the preparation of food using recognised catering techniques and methods.
• Help with basic cooking tasks such as frying boiling steaming vegetables and preparing salads and sandwiches.
• Operate kitchen machinery (e.g. mixers slicers dishwashers sterilisers) once trained.
• Support in the setup and supervision of the dining area ensuring smooth service and a welcoming environment.
• Clean and maintain tables trays trolleys bins and kitchen equipment ensuring all areas meet Health & Safety and Food Hygiene standards.
• Operate tills and assist with cashless catering free school meals and staff meal processes.
• Monitor and record food temperatures and fridge/freezer checks in line with regulations.
• Participate in routine and deep cleaning of the kitchen and dining room using approved chemicals and methods.
• Assist the Catering Operations Manager and Lead Cook with catering-related tasks and skill development.
• Support with risk assessments and promptly report hazards or safety concerns.
• Help provide catering for school events such as parents evenings meetings and conferences.

What Were Looking For

• A positive team-oriented attitude and willingness to learn.
• Good communication and organisational skills.
• Commitment to high standards of cleanliness hygiene and service.
• Flexibility to support school events or cover other local schools when required.
• Previous catering or kitchen experience is desirable but not essential full training provided

There are many advantages to working for us. Included in your actual annual salary is a generous annual leave entitlement access to a local government pension scheme sick pay scheme cycle-to-work scheme free eye tests and employee assistance helpline.

We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date if we receive sufficient applications for the role.