Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for?
Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering Fostering, Education, Residential and Family services and cares for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year. Fair Ways is a great place to work. We are a team. We care about each other and are all committed to making a change to the lives of the young people and service users in our care. We will not apologise for calling our staff great, the best, or world-class. Our staff are at the core of our organisation and we celebrate them by shouting it from the rooftops!
Where and when do we need you?
To support the exciting expansion of Fair Ways education provision, we are looking for a school cook to work as part of our fantastic team at our specialist Autism School (GLADE) located in Totton. This role requires an enthusiastic, reliable, well-motivated person to plan, prepare and produce consistent, high-quality lunch time meals, supporting pupils with specific dietary, sensory, or medical requirements and in turn contribute to pupils’ wellbeing, readiness to learn, and daily routine.
As the school cook at our provision you will be involved exciting and rewarding things like:
- Planning and Preparation - To be responsible for the planning of a range of meals for up to 20 students, working with the Head of School to ensure good oversight of budget management and that appropriate shopping is ordered each week. This is to ensure cost are managed in line with the schools’ financial requirements and that there is adequate and timely provision of the supplies required to fulfil the needs and requirements of our students.
- Cooking and Creativity - To prepare and produce a suitable 1 course lunch time meal each day (Mon-Thurs), using fresh ingredients, ensuring they are properly cleaned and stored. This will be done on regular rotation for each half term to ensure that our students have access to varied healthy and nutritious food supporting them in being their best self whilst at school.
- Food Service and Support - To serve food to our students, ensuring appropriate portion sizes and accommodating children’s dietary needs, sensory requirements and allergies ensuring that the health, safety and wellbeing of our students is paramount at all times.
- Cleaning and adherence to Health and Safety - To clear down and clean all kitchen equipment, utensils, and surfaces before and after food preparation using the products and equipment provided maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and ensuring compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations including this such as daily cleaning logs , fridge temp checks, produce date checks at all times.
- Stock management and monitoring - To monitor and manage stock and supplies through documented quality controls ensuring all required items are purchased, consumed within the required time frames and that there is minimal food waste.
- Playing your PART - Supporting a compassionate, resilient and trauma informed community that embraces learning, so that we improve the lives and outcomes of every individual.
Successful candidates will be working 4 days per week (Monday – Thursday) for 3 hrs each day for 40 weeks of the year. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways. Fair Ways are unable to provide VISA sponsorship for this role and all applicants will need to be able to provide evidence of right to work in the UK.
You and your specialisms
Supporting roles within our frontline services help achieve our mission of making a difference through passionate care, support, and education. To support this, you will be required to have, or be working towards a minimum of the following qualification or skill levels:
- Level 2 or equivalent qualification for use of chemicals and cleaning equipment this must be passed on day 1 in post (if not already obtained)
- A working knowledge & understanding of Health & Safety considerations and the legislation surrounding them.
- Practical skills necessary to undertake general building maintenance, minor repairs, porterage duties
- Ability to maintain records, information and data as appropriate
Let us look after you!
At Fair Ways, we care about your well-being, here is what we currently offer to our dedicated team:
- Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers. Experience a workplace that celebrates your contributions.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days). We value your time and offer flexibility to accommodate your existing commitments.
- Health and Support: Benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – The ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
- Growth and Development: Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master's level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
- Wellbeing Matters: Experience team-building days, summer festivals, and well-being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle-to-work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
- Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture.
- Benefits may differ dependant on contract type.
Become a part of our community – We can’t wait to meet you!
If you're passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!
