Henshaws is a northern charity supporting people living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities to go beyond expectations. We believe that, wherever they are, everyone has the right to an independent and fulfilling life. Our support, advice and training enables people and their families build skills, develop confidence, help each other and look forward to a more positive future.
We are looking for a Cook to join our friendly and supportive kitchen team. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys preparing nutritious, high-quality meals and takes pride in making a positive difference to the day of every student and colleague they serve.
Working closely with the Catering Manager and wider catering team, you will help prepare, cook and serve meals that meet a wide range of dietary needs, ensuring every individual receives a safe, enjoyable and inclusive dining experience. You'll play an important role in maintaining high standards of food hygiene, safety and presentation, while contributing to a welcoming and well-organised kitchen environment.
This role is term-time only, working Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 2:00pm, offering a great work-life balance alongside the opportunity to be part of a team that genuinely cares about the people it supports.
Your contribution will have a meaningful impact, helping to create positive mealtime experiences that support students to thrive, feel valued and achieve their potential.
Salary: £14.93 per hour/£23,399.79 per annum
Hours per week: 35
Weeks per year: 38
Contract: Permanent
Location: Henshaws Specialist College in Starbeck/Harrogate
Closing Date: 10th July 2026 at 12 Noon
At Henshaws, our values guide everything we do:
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Ambition – You will help us continuously strive to do more and do better by maintaining high standards and supporting improvements in our facilities.
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Respect – You will act with integrity and care, ensuring every space is welcoming and safe for students, staff and visitors.
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Empowerment – By creating a positive environment, you enable others to thrive, learn and feel confident in their surroundings
We are looking for someone who:
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Has experience in a catering kitchen, or relevant practical experience
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Can maintain a high level of food hygiene while working efficiently, paying attention to detail
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Is self-motivated and able to work on their own initiative
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Has good communication skills and a respectful, friendly attitude
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Understands the importance of health and safety and hygiene standards
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Ensure all student dietary requirements, including Dysphagia needs are understood and consistently catered for
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support the catering manager in leading the catering team to prepare, cook and serve meal that meet required standards
You will need to complete an enhanced DBS check with child barring. Training will be provided, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Henshaws Society for Blind People aims to employ a diverse workforce and is committed to equality of employment and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community.
Henshaws is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. It is a criminal offence for people barred from working in regulated activity to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with that particular group e.g. vulnerable adults, children or both. An Enhanced DBS with barring and reference checks will be sought from the successful candidate.
Henshaws reserves the right to check social media accounts of all successful applicants.
Registered Charity No: 221888
Benefit: A paid Wellbeing day (after one years service), Company Sick pay after completion of probationary period, Company Pension Scheme
