About this role
• New Skill Centre SEN School • Address: New Skill Centre, Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 9QR • Salary: £25,155 per annum (pro rata), £13,733.16 per annum (Actual salary) • Hours: 25 hours per week, 9.30 am - 2.30 pm, Monday - Friday • Contract: Permanent • Reference: 5540 New Skill Centre SEN School are looking for a motivated, reliable, and hardworking Kitchen Assistant / Assistant Chef to join our friendly school catering team. You will work closely with the school Chef and Office Manager to help prepare, cook, and serve nutritious, high-quality meals to our students. This is a rewarding role ideal for someone who enjoys a busy friendly kitchen environment. The New Skill Centre is an Independent SEND School catering for the needs of young people aged 11 to 19 years old. It is a busy and supportive school environment with a dedicated friendly and welcoming staff team. Key responsibilities
• Assist in the basic preparation, cooking, and assembly of fresh food and beverages in line with school menus. • Set up service counters, display food attractively, and serve meals with a friendly, welcoming customer service approach. • Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organisation across the kitchen, and equipment. • Assist with the safe receipt, checking, and storage of daily food deliveries and inventory. • Adhere strictly to all health, safety, food hygiene, and allergen control regulations. What you will need
• Experience: Previous experience in a commercial kitchen, school catering, or food service role is preferred, though a positive attitude and willingness to learn are most important. • Certifications: Hold (or be willing to work towards) a Level 2 Food Hygiene / Safety Certificate. • Team Player: Able to work well independently and as part of a supportive team in a busy school environment. • Safeguarding: Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Requirements and Checks: This post involves working in regulated activity with children and requires a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check What we will offer you
• Family-friendly working hours (Monday to Friday, term-time only). • No late nights, weekends, or bank holidays. • Supportive and welcoming workplace environment. • Pension scheme and ongoing training opportunities. For more information You are welcome to arrange a visit and meet with the Headteacher to discuss details of the position by contacting the school by either calling 01473 290276 (Option 2) or emailing [email protected] To find out more about our School, please visit the school website. How to apply To apply, please send a copy of your CV (Curriculum Vitae) with a Covering Letter by email to [email protected] Alternatively, please post these, to arrive prior to the closing date, to: Mrs N Shaw, Office Manager, New Skill Centre SEND School, Wolsey House, 2-5 The Drift, Nacton Rd, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 9QR. Closing date: 1.00 pm, 12 October 2026.