Catering Assistant at Maiden Erlegh School

Location:

Silverdale Rd, Earley, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 7HS

Contract Type:
Permanent, Part-Time (Term Time Only, 17.5 hours per week plus 2 INSET days)

Salary: £10,199.00 annually

Start Date:

September 2026

We are seeking to appoint a Catering Assistant to join Maiden Erlegh School. The postholder 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 role reports to the Catering Manager and Chef and ensures a clean, safe, efficient, and welcoming dining environment during the school day.

• 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 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.

As a Disability Confident employer, we encourage all candidates to apply. If you need any support with your application or adjustments during the selection process, please contact our People Team by emailing (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). or calling .

Benefits of working with Maiden Erlegh Trust include:

• Pension Scheme – Generous employer contributions through the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Annual Leave – Generous entitlement, increasing with length of service.
• ME Day – One additional day’s leave each year for a significant personal event.
• Professional Development – Extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities.
• Hybrid Working – Flexible working arrangements for eligible roles.
• Perkbox – Discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points.
• Wellbeing and Health – Free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible).
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes.
• Mental Health First Aid Support.
• Recognition and Community – Celebrating achievements and milestones across TeamMET.
• Employee Referral Scheme.

The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time.