General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies

Colchester Institute; Colchester; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Colchester is seeking a reliable General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies. The role involves supporting the operational needs of kitchens and salons, maintaining high standards, and ensuring a safe learning environment. Ideal candidates possess Level 2 qualifications and practical experience in a commercial setting. This is a part-time position, suitable for those committed to helping students succeed.

Qualifications

• Education to Level 2 or above and/or a relevant professional qualification.
• Practical experience in a commercial kitchen and/or salon.
• Awareness of Health & Safety at Work regulations.

Responsibilities

• Support teaching staff, technicians, and students in kitchens and/or salons.
• Prepare materials and equipment efficiently.
• Maintain cleanliness and housekeeping in salons and kitchens.

Skills

Housekeeping skills

Organisational skills

Oral communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

Level 2 Education or relevant qualification

Minimum Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade C/4)

Job description

General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies

Join Colchester Institute – Where Your Career Makes a Difference. At Colchester Institute, we are committed to providing outstanding learning environments that prepare our students for successful careers in the hospitality and beauty industries. We are seeking a reliable, proactive and enthusiastic General Assistant to support the day‑to‑day running of our kitchens and/or salons and help maintain high standards across all learning and commercial areas.

Job Title: General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies, Term time only, 15 hours a week.

About the Role

As a General Assistant, you will play a vital role in ensuring that classrooms, salons and kitchens are fully prepared, well‑organised and safe for learners, staff and clients. Working closely with lecturers and technicians, you will support practical sessions, maintain equipment, manage stock levels and contribute to the smooth operation of both educational and commercial activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support teaching staff, technicians and students across the curriculum in kitchens and/or salons.
• Prepare materials, equipment and resources in a timely and effective manner.
• Help ensure all equipment is maintained in a safe, operational condition, reporting faults to the Technician Supervisor.
• Adhere to Health & Safety at Work regulations and promote safe working practices at all times.
• Assist with maintaining cleanliness and housekeeping in salons and kitchens, including during commercial sessions.
• Undertake laundry duties to support Hospitality and Salon Studies.
• Participate in allocated shift patterns, including daytime and evening work.
• Undertake training relevant to the post and maintain up-to-date professional knowledge.
• Uphold the College's Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, Health & Safety and College Values.
• Carry out any additional reasonable duties aligned with the nature of the role.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Education to Level 2 or above and/or a relevant professional qualification.
• Minimum Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent).
• Practical experience within a commercial kitchen and/or salon.
• Experience working effectively as part of a team.
• Awareness of Health & Safety at Work regulations.
• Good ILT/IT skills.

Knowledge and Skills – Essential

• Strong housekeeping and organisational skills.
• Good oral and communication skills.
• A flexible, adaptable can‑do attitude with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to build and maintain positive, professional relationships with staff and learners.
• Commitment to safeguarding and creating a safe learning environment.

We do not engage with recruitment or search agencies unless they have been officially contracted in line with our PSL.