School Cook
Location: London N1 2QH
Salary: From £17.09 per hour (inclusive of holiday pay)
Hours: 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday (9:00am - 3:00pm)
Contract: Term-time only (36.2 weeks per year: 35 weeks term time + 1.2 weeks inset days)
Start Date: September 2026
About the School
St Paul’s Waldorf School is an independent, non-selective school in Islington educating children aged 3–14 in a historic Grade II* listed building. The school follows a Steiner (Waldorf) approach, focusing on holistic education that nurtures the intellectual, creative, and practical development of each child.
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced School Cook to provide a high-quality catering service that supports the wellbeing of pupils and staff. This is an excellent opportunity to join a values-led school community where nutrition, care, and quality food provision are central to school life.
Occasional additional hours may be required to meet the needs of the role.
Key Responsibilities
Catering & Meal Provision
Plan and deliver varied, nutritious menus in line with school food standards
Prepare and serve high-quality meals for pupils and staff
Manage suppliers and support cost-effective purchasing
Maintain stock levels and minimise food waste
Cater for dietary requirements and ensure allergen information is clearly communicated
Maintain consistency and high standards in all food provision
Communicate effectively with staff regarding menus and dietary needs
Health & Safety
Ensure compliance with all food safety and health & safety legislation
Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment
Operate kitchen equipment safely and report faults promptly
Support maintenance and repair processes with the Facilities Manager
Record accidents and incidents as required
Maintain Safe Food Better Business (SFBB) records and procedures
Team & School Community
Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and the wider school community
Attend meetings as required
Contribute positively to the school’s ethos and values
Safeguarding & Compliance
Adhere to safeguarding, child protection, and health & safety policies
Maintain confidentiality at all times
Participate in relevant training such as First Aid and safeguarding
Person Specification
Qualifications
Level 3 Food Safety qualification (or equivalent)
GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Math’s
Experience
Experience in a busy kitchen or catering environment
Supervisory or team leadership experience
Experience in menu planning and stock control
Experience working in a school or with children (desirable)
Skills & Knowledge
Strong culinary and food production skills
Understanding of school catering standards and legislation
Good organisational and multitasking abilities
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Ability to work under pressure
Personal Qualities
Positive, resilient, and enthusiastic approach
Strong commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing
Ability to build positive relationships in a school community
Respect for confidentiality
Commitment to the ethos of holistic education
Apply now to join St Paul’s Waldorf School and help provide nourishing meals that support children to thrive.
Relevant experience may include: School Cook, School Chef, Catering Manager (School), Kitchen Manager, Cook (Education Sector), Catering Supervisor