Supporting great food, happy pupils and a welcoming school community.
If you are hardworking, reliable and enjoy working as part of a friendly catering team, we would love to hear from you. We are looking for an enthusiastic Catering Assistant to join our team at Wellesley Haddon Dene. Could that be you?
As our Catering Assistant, you will support the Kitchen Supervisor in providing a high-quality catering service for the School and our Mini-Stay provision. You will help with food preparation and service while ensuring excellent standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and safety are maintained throughout the kitchen.
About Wellesley Haddon Dene
Based in Broadstairs on the stunning Kent coast, Wellesley Haddon Dene is a thriving independent Prep School with a warm, family-like atmosphere and an exceptional reputation for excellence. We give children the best start in life through small class sizes, high expectations, rich opportunities and a culture where every child is truly known. Wellesley Haddon Dene isn’t just an inspiring place to learn – it’s a wonderful place to work too. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and supportive community for our pupils, families and staff.
About the Position
Contract Type: Permanent, All Year Round
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm, with flexibility
Salary: £12.71 per hour
Start Date: September 2026
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting the Kitchen Supervisor with the preparation, presentation and service of meals, snacks and refreshments.
- Supporting the catering requirements of the School and its Mini-Stay provision.
- Preparing ingredients and food items safely and efficiently.
- Serving pupils, staff and visitors in a friendly and professional manner.
- Supporting the receiving, storage and appropriate rotation of food and ingredients.
- Maintaining excellent standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the kitchen, food preparation and serving areas.
- Following food safety procedures, including those relating to allergens and dietary requirements.
- Assisting with catering for school events and activities when required.
- Working collaboratively with the wider catering team to provide an efficient and reliable service.
We are looking for someone who has:
- Previous experience working within a kitchen, catering or food-service environment.
- A good understanding of food hygiene and the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- A positive, reliable and hardworking approach.
- The ability to remain organised and efficient in a busy kitchen environment.
- A flexible approach and willingness to support the changing needs of the School.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
A Level 2 Food Safety/Food Hygiene qualification would be advantageous; however, relevant training can be provided.
Why Work at Wellesley Haddon Dene?
You will enjoy a welcoming, collaborative environment where staff are valued, supported and encouraged to grow. Our benefits include:
- Competitive remuneration package.
- Company pension scheme.
- Company sick pay.
- Life assurance worth three times your annual salary.
- Free lunch provided.
- Refer-a-friend scheme with financial reward.
- Wellbeing and wellness programme.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- A collaborative, friendly and supportive working environment.
If you have catering experience and would enjoy working within a friendly and supportive school community, we would be delighted to receive your application.
We look forward to welcoming you to Wellesley Haddon Dene.
Wellesley Haddon Dene is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants for ALL jobs will undergo appropriate child-protection screening including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to enhanced level, costs are covered by the candidates. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
