Job Introduction
School Cook
Autism Anglia and Doucecroft School, Colchester
Are you passionate about helping young people reach their full potential? Doucecroft School, part of Autism Anglia, is looking for a part time School Cooks join our friendly and dedicated team.
This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who enjoys encouraging learners both individually and in small groups, helping them to build confidence, develop new skills, and thrive in a safe, supportive environment.
Find out more about our school here: Doucecroft School
Location
Doucecroft School, Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6
Salary
£15,356.88 per annum (term-time only, plus additional training days)
Hours
24 hours per week, split across 3 x 8 hour shifts (Monday to Wednesday, Wednesday to Friday)
39 weeks per year (term time only) plus 3 training days during school holidays
What the role involves
- Prepare and cook lunches and catering for school events, including meeting students’ dietary, allergy and sensory needs.
- Plan and develop nutritious, balanced menus for students and staff, considering dietary requirements and preferences.
- Demonstrate an understanding of autism and provide a respectful, inclusive service that supports students’ dietary requirements.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and food safety across kitchen and dining areas.
- Work collaboratively with the kitchen team, communicating effectively and contributing to a positive working environment.
- Complete daily checklists, follow school policies and procedures, and undertake risk assessments/report concerns as required.
- Manage food ordering, stock control, deliveries and storage to ensure adequate supplies are maintained.
- Comply with health, safety and environmental regulations, handle waste and cleaning products safely, complete required training, and uphold the Charity’s values at all times.
What we’re looking for
- Maths and English GCSE Grade C/4 or above essential.
- Food Hygiene certificate desirable.
- Experience of working within catering environment, ideally within education or hospitality.
- Sound dietary and nutritional knowledge.
Most importantly, we’re looking for someone with patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for supporting young people.
Benefits & Support
At Doucecroft, we know our staff are at the heart of everything we do, so we make sure you’re supported too. We provide:
- Staff wellbeing programmes and mental health support
- Free counselling service
- Comprehensive training and supervision
- Free on-site parking
- Exclusive discounts with major retailers, restaurants & more via the Blue Light Card
- A supportive and accessible leadership team, always available for guidance and assistance
- 24/7 access to a GP
- Bereavement counselling
- Probate helpline
- Staff dental support
- Life cover
- Independent financial advice
Commitment to Diversity
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
How to apply
If you’re looking for a role where you can use your skills to change lives, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today by clicking the link below, and a member of our recruitment team will be in touch.
Doucecroft is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, and we expect all staff to share this commitment. This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, registration with the DBS Update Service, and other relevant checks, including verbal verification of references.
We welcome applications from all individuals who meet the requirements of the role and may wish to request flexible working or reasonable adjustments.
Please note: unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship. Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.