Staff Direct – Agency Cook Wanted in Blackburn | Term-Time Position, Sep 2025
Job Title: Staff Direct – Agency Cook (Term-Time Position)
Location: Blackburn
Start Date: September 2025
Job Description:
We are seeking a skilled and experienced Agency Cook to join our team in Blackburn for a term-time position starting in September 2025. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of nutritious meals in a school setting.
Main Responsibilities:
1. Prepare and cook a range of healthy meals for students and staff, following a set menu.
2. Ensure all meals are prepared to a high standard and served on time.
3. Adhere to food safety and hygiene regulations, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.
4. Manage stock levels and place orders for ingredients and supplies as needed.
5. Work collaboratively with other kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.
6. Assist with menu planning and development, considering dietary requirements and allergies.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
1. Formal culinary training or equivalent experience in a professional kitchen setting.
2. Sound knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.
3. Ability to work well under pressure and manage time effectively.
4. Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
5. Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and requirements.
Experience:
1. At least 2 years of experience working as a cook in a school, hospital, or similar institutional setting.
2. Proven experience in preparing large quantities of food while maintaining quality and consistency.
3. Familiarity with dietary requirements and allergies is a plus.
Pay Rates:
– The hourly rate for this position is £12.50 to £15.00, depending on experience and qualifications.
– This is a term-time position, with approximately 39 weeks of work per academic year.
To apply for this position, please submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.
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Term-Time Position Starting September 2025
Staff Direct, a leading staffing agency in the UK, is currently seeking an experienced and passionate cook to fill a term-time position in Blackburn. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic educational setting, preparing nutritious and delicious meals for students and staff. This exciting role is set to commence in September 2025 and offers a fantastic opportunity for a skilled culinary professional to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.
About Staff Direct
Staff Direct is a well-established staffing agency that has been providing exceptional recruitment services to various sectors, including education, for many years. With a strong reputation for matching talented individuals with the right organizations, Staff Direct prides itself on its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. By partnering with educational institutions across the UK, Staff Direct ensures that schools and colleges have access to the best culinary talent available.
The Role
As an Agency Cook at a school in Blackburn, you will be responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of healthy and appetizing meals for students and staff. This term-time position requires a dedicated individual who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and hygiene. Your primary duties will include:
1. Planning and developing menus that cater to the diverse needs of the school community, taking into account dietary requirements, allergies, and cultural preferences.
2. Preparing, cooking, and serving meals in accordance with established recipes and portion sizes, ensuring consistent quality and presentation.
3. Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment, adhering to all relevant health and safety regulations.
4. Managing stock levels, ordering ingredients, and ensuring the efficient use of resources to minimize waste.
5. Collaborating with other members of the catering team, including kitchen assistants and front-of-house staff, to ensure smooth and efficient service.
6. Engaging with students and staff to gather feedback, address concerns, and continuously improve the dining experience.
Candidate Requirements
To be considered for this exciting role, candidates should possess the following qualifications, skills, and experience:
1. Relevant culinary qualifications, such as an NVQ in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent.
2. Proven experience working as a cook in a professional kitchen environment, preferably within an educational setting.
3. Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations, with a valid Food Hygiene Certificate.
4. Excellent cooking skills, with the ability to prepare a wide range of dishes using various cooking techniques.
5. Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work efficiently under pressure.
6. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
7. A passion for creating healthy, nutritious, and appealing meals that cater to the needs of students and staff.
Benefits of Working with Staff Direct
By joining Staff Direct as an Agency Cook, you will enjoy a range of benefits, including:
1. Competitive pay rates commensurate with your experience and qualifications.
2. Flexible working arrangements, with the opportunity to work term-time hours that suit your lifestyle.
3. Ongoing support and guidance from a dedicated consultant at Staff Direct, who will be available to answer any questions and provide assistance throughout your assignment.
4. Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
5. The chance to work in a rewarding and fulfilling environment, where you can make a positive difference in the lives of students and contribute to the success of the school.
The School
The school in Blackburn is a thriving educational institution that places great emphasis on the well-being and development of its students. With a commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, the school recognizes the importance of offering high-quality, nutritious meals to fuel students' growth and academic success. As an Agency Cook, you will play a crucial role in supporting this mission and contributing to the overall quality of life for the school community.
The school boasts modern and well-equipped kitchen facilities, providing you with the tools and resources necessary to excel in your role. You will work alongside a dedicated team of catering professionals who share your passion for creating delicious and healthy meals. The school values the contributions of its staff and fosters a supportive and collaborative working environment, where everyone's ideas and efforts are appreciated.
Application Process
If you are a talented and enthusiastic cook looking for a rewarding term-time position in Blackburn, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To submit your application, please visit the Staff Direct website and follow these steps:
1. Create a candidate profile, providing detailed information about your qualifications, experience, and skills.
2. Upload a current resume and any relevant certifications, such as your Food Hygiene Certificate.
3. Complete the online application form, ensuring that all required fields are filled in accurately.
4. Submit your application and await further communication from a Staff Direct consultant.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their culinary skills, discuss their experience, and demonstrate their passion for working in an educational setting.
Join Staff Direct Today
Staff Direct is committed to helping talented individuals find rewarding employment opportunities in the education sector. By joining our agency as an Agency Cook, you will become part of a respected and trusted organization that values your skills and experience. We offer ongoing support, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of students and staff.
Don't miss this opportunity to take your culinary career to the next level and contribute to the success of a dynamic educational institution in Blackburn. Apply now and let Staff Direct help you unlock your full potential as a skilled and passionate cook.
FAQs – Staff Direct – Agency Cook Wanted in Blackburn | Term-Time Position, Sep 2025
1. What qualifications are required for the Agency Cook position?
The ideal candidate should have relevant cooking qualifications and experience working in a school or catering environment. Food hygiene certification is also essential.
2. What are the working hours for this term-time position?
The Agency Cook will work during school term times, typically following the school's operating hours. Exact working hours will be confirmed upon appointment.
3. What are the main responsibilities of the Agency Cook?
The Agency Cook will be responsible for preparing and cooking meals for students and staff, ensuring high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety. They will also assist with menu planning and stock management.
4. Is there potential for ongoing work after the initial contract?
While this is a term-time position for the academic year starting September 2025, there may be opportunities for ongoing work with Staff Direct depending on performance and future requirements.
5. How can I apply for the Agency Cook position in Blackburn?
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications to Staff Direct. You can email your application or apply through their website. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.