Cook
Location: Bermondsey, London
Hours: Part-Time – 21 hours per week - Tuesday to Friday: 10:00am – 2:00pm (occasionally 10:30am – 2:30pm depending on the menu), Sunday: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Pay rate: £15.57 (weekday) - £19.37 (weekend) per hour
Interview date: Thursday 23rd July 2026
About the Role:
We are looking for a caring, reliable and experienced Cook to join our team at Bermondsey Convent, home to the Sisters of Mercy. This is a rewarding opportunity to prepare fresh, nutritious meals in a welcoming and respectful environment where hospitality, compassion and dignity are at the heart of everything we do.
The successful candidate will provide a high-quality catering service, ensuring meals are nutritious, appetising and tailored to meet individual dietary, nutritional and allergy requirements. The role also involves maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and stock control.
As this position is based within a Religious Community, the successful applicant will be expected to respect the religious ethos, values and practices of the Institute of Our Lady of Mercy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and cook nutritious, well-balanced meals in accordance with agreed menus.
- Cater for individual dietary, allergy and nutritional requirements, including modified and pureed diets where required.
- Present meals to a high standard to encourage enjoyment and wellbeing.
- Assist with menu planning in consultation with the Facilities & Administration Coordinator.
- Cater for special occasions including birthdays, feast days, celebrations and other community events.
- Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and kitchen safety in line with Food Standards Agency and Environmental Health regulations.
- Complete all required food safety, cleaning and temperature records accurately.
- Monitor food stock, minimise waste and assist with ordering supplies.
- Check deliveries and report any discrepancies or equipment issues.
- Maintain a clean, organised and safe kitchen environment.
- Prepare meals for visitors and staff when required.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience working as a cook, chef or catering professional.
- Holds a Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above preferred).
- Has a good understanding of food safety legislation and allergen management.
- Can prepare healthy, nutritious meals using fresh ingredients.
- Is organised, reliable and able to work independently.
- Has excellent time management and organisational skills.
- Is committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Is respectful, compassionate and enjoys supporting the wellbeing of others.
- Is flexible and willing to adapt to the changing needs of the community.
What We Offer:
- A varied and rewarding role where your work genuinely makes a difference.
- A supportive, welcoming and friendly working environment.
- Opportunities for training and professional development.
- Opportunity to work within a respected charitable organisation.
- Basic DBS check funded by the Institute upon successful appointment.
- 30 days annual leave (pro rata, increasing to 35 with service milestones)
- Subsidised meals during shifts
- Free on-site parking
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 support and counselling
- Access to over 6,000 discounts on travel, shopping, leisure, and more
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Additional Information:
Flexibility is essential, as occasional changes to working hours and holiday arrangements may be required to meet the needs of the Convent.
The Institute of Our Lady of Mercy is committed to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion. The successful applicant will be expected to uphold these values and maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with GDPR requirements.
If you are a passionate cook who enjoys preparing wholesome meals and would like to work in a warm, respectful and community-focused environment, we would love to hear from you.
We warmly welcome applications from people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs who support the values and mission of the Institute of Our Lady of Mercy.
Pay: £15.57-£19.37 per hour
Application question(s):
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person
