Job Description

The Willows Primary School and Nursery has an exciting opportunity for a Catering Assistant to join the team as soon as possible.

The hours will be 11:00am to 2:30pm Monday to Friday (17.5 hours per week) term time only for 38 weeks per year.

Scale 2, Point 4 (Range 4-5), Actual Salary £10,587 per annum (includes paid annual leave which must be taken during closure periods).

Closing Date: Midday on 9th October 2026. Interview Date: 16th October 2026.

School

The Willows Primary School and Nursery is one of 11 schools which form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background. The Trust is growing rapidly and is a vibrant, exciting and dynamic place to learn and work.

We are looking for a person who:
· is an enthusiastic, hardworking and dependable team member to work in our school kitchen, to assist with the preparation of food and beverages, and to help clean and maintain the kitchen equipment
· will work well as part of a team and has a commitment to improving and developing their own practice
· has previous experience working in kitchens

We can offer you:
· a forward looking school that is dedicated to the success of all children and staff
· a commitment to continued professional development
· access to our Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their families
· enrolment in to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which is one of the largest defined benefit pension schemes in the UK

Berlesduna is a Trust that values and invests in staff, excellent training, development and planned career progression.

Application

We welcome visits to the school prior to application. Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office at admin@willows.essex.sch.uk or by phone 01268 470880.

Please take care to complete the application in full as incomplete applications will not be considered.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early so recommend that you submit your application at your earliest convenience.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We may review the internet and social media relating to shortlisted candidates as part of the screening process. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.

We are an equal opportunities employer.

Information about the School

The Willows Primary School and Nursery is one of the ten schools which form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background. The Trust is growing rapidly and is a vibrant, exciting and dynamic place to learn and work.