General Assistant

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated General Assistant to join a thriving independent school catering team in Colchester, Essex. This permanent full-time position is term-time based, covering approximately 36 weeks per year from Monday to Friday, offering 40 working hours weekly and an hourly wage of 12.71.

Responsibilities

• Assist the team in serving customers efficiently while maintaining stock levels and cleanliness.
• Prepare service areas thoroughly before meal services to ensure smooth operation.
• Handle setup, serving, clearing, cleaning, and proper storage of food, beverages, and equipment, especially during special events.
• Prepare simple food items adhering stringently to food hygiene and safety standards.
• Monitor and replenish consumables and stock during service to anticipate customer needs and enhance service quality.
• Manage waste disposal and recycling accurately in designated areas.
• Occasionally work evenings or weekends to support school functions and special events.
• Maintain adherence to company food quality standards and control food wastage.
• Uphold all Food Hygiene, Health & Safety, and allergen control policies diligently.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Experience in a fast-paced catering environment is preferred.
• Possession of a Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification is required.
• Strong teamwork capabilities, attentive listening, and the ability to work independently.
• High standards of personal presentation, hygiene, and interpersonal conduct.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing work demands.
• Honesty, reliability, and a proactive approach toward excellent customer service.
• Willingness to learn new skills and assume some responsibilities.
• Physical ability to handle moderate lifting, carrying, and pushing.
• Competent English communication skills, both written and verbal.

Benefits

• Access to a discount scheme at major retailers, gyms, and restaurants.
• Complimentary meals during working hours.
• Volunteer leave entitlement of up to one day annually.
• Enhanced parental leave options including maternity, paternity and adoption.
• Cycle to work scheme participation.
• Referral bonuses upon recommending suitable friends.
• Robust training and development opportunities including apprenticeship programs.
• Company social events and support through an employee assistance program.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• Clear prospects for career progression within a leading independent contract catering business.

Additional Information

Thomas Franks Ltd is a founder-led fresh food catering company emphasizing excellence and personalized service. We place paramount importance on our clients and employees for ongoing success.

Applicants must prove their legal right to work in the UK. The recruitment process includes enhanced DBS checks and reference verifications covering the last five years. As this role involves working in a school setting, candidates must disclose any criminal convictions or cautions, exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

We promote diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups to foster a vibrant, diverse workforce.

Note that onsite parking is not available owing to the location in the town center, though multiple public parking options and public transport links are nearby.