School Cook

How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four? At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG. Role: School Cook Location: Jubilee School, Waterlooville PO7 7RE Salary: £23,833.13 per annum / £14.25 p/h (not pro rata) Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:00am–3:30pm Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only Start: January 2026 UK applicants only — this role does not offer visa sponsorship About The Role As School Cook, you’ll lead the planning, preparation, and delivery of a high-quality catering service. You’ll create nutritious, appealing meals that meet a range of dietary needs, maintain excellent food safety standards, and ensure the kitchen operates smoothly each day. Where applicable, you will also oversee the kitchen team to maintain a positive, efficient and well‑organised working environment. What You’ll Do Prepare fresh, nutritious meals that support pupil and staff wellbeing Plan balanced menus that meet a range of dietary requirements Keep the kitchen running safely and efficiently, maintaining high hygiene standards Manage stock, portion control, ordering and food waste responsibly Handle deliveries and supplier queries with accuracy Provide tailored meals for specific dietary needs Support daily mealtime services for students, staff and visitors Lead, support and guide the kitchen team, delegating tasks effectively General Responsibilities Include Reporting maintenance issues and maintaining accurate records Working within budget and using resources responsibly Following school policies, including safeguarding and health & safety Representing Jubilee School professionally and prioritising pupil wellbeing What We’re Looking For Holds a Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or 3) Enjoys creating high-quality, nutritious meals for young people Maintains excellent hygiene and safety standards Works confidently in a busy kitchen Can plan menus, manage stock and stay organised under pressure Communicates well and builds positive relationships Is flexible, reliable and adaptable Works well as part of a friendly, supportive team Upholds Jubilee School’s values with students’ wellbeing at the centre Benefits Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first‑class mental health support services and physical health checks A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. Why Join Acorn Education? We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks, and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS. Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including the benefits above. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales. #J-18808-Ljbffr