Catering Assistant

As a Catering Assistant, you will support the Cook/Supervisor in the safe preparation, serving, and delivery of nutritious school meals. This role is vital to the smooth running of the school day and contributes directly to pupils' health, wellbeing, and overall experience. You will work in line with food safety legislation while embracing the school's relational, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming approach, supporting an integrated model of education and care.

• Assist with the preparation, cooking and serving of meals, including accommodating special dietary requirements
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene across the kitchen, equipment and dining areas in line with health and safety regulations
• Support food preparation and service both on site and, where required, for other schools
• Monitor food supplies, report issues, and keep accurate records of meals, cancellations and changes
• Assist with clearing, washing up and general kitchen duties to ensure efficient service
• Support lunchtime supervision of pupils, ensuring meals are served and completed safely and hygienically, and report any behavioural observations to teaching staff
  
  Catering experience
• Good literacy and numeracy skills
• NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation (desirable)
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (desirable)
  
  At Mountfield Heath School, every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and rewards. Every member of our team plays a crucial role in shaping brighter futures for our pupils.
We support autistic boys and girls aged 5-11, many of whom have additional needs. Our independent special educational needs provision currently educates 45 pupils, across a spacious site with large classrooms and dedicated outdoor learning areas. Our mission is simple: to equip every child with the skills, confidence, and knowledge they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. We aim to prepare pupils not only for school but for life beyond, encouraging them to achieve high standards in all areas of development. Located in Robertsbridge, East Sussex, the school is easily accessible from Hastings, Royal Tunbridge Wells, and surrounding areas, making this an exciting opportunity to join a supportive and forward-thinking school community. For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the sixth year running.

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the 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.
• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• "Your Wellbeing Matters" - mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
+ Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits + Hundreds of UK and international discounts + Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme + Critical illness cover + Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support