School Cook

SMART Education Recruitment; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency in Birmingham is seeking a passionate School Cook to work in a specialist SEMH setting. The successful candidate will prepare healthy meals and ensure the well-being of students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Previous experience as a School Cook and relevant qualifications are essential. This role offers term-time hours and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Weekly pay

Term-time only hours

Holiday pay

Supportive and inclusive working environment

Qualifications

• Candidate must hold an Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service.
• Strong organisation and cleanliness in kitchen management is required.
• Excellent communication skills and a calm, professional approach are essential.

Responsibilities

• Prepare daily meals for students with SEMH needs.
• Ensure pupils receive healthy, balanced meals.
• Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness and organisation.

Skills

Previous experience as a School Cook

Excellent kitchen management skills

Ability to plan and prepare nutritious meals

Strong understanding of food allergies

Reliability and adaptability

Education

Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate

Relevant catering qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds/NVQ)

Job description

Job Title: School Cook (SEMH Setting)
Pay Rate: GBP20,563 - GBP25,425 pro rata
Location: Birmingham
Hours: Monday to Friday 7.15am - 2.15pm

Smart Education is currently recruiting for a School Cook to work in a specialist SEMH setting in Birmingham, catering for students with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Benefits of working as a School Cook:

• Weekly pay
• Term-time only hours
• Holiday pay
• Supportive and inclusive working environment
• Dedicated consultant ensuring a smooth and positive work experience

Job Requirements for this School Cook role in Birmingham:

• Previous experience as a School Cook is essential
• Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
• Relevant catering qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds/NVQ)
• Must hold an Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service
• Ability to plan and prepare nutritious meals that meet a variety of dietary needs
• Strong understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and safe food preparation practices
• Excellent kitchen management skills including stock control, cleanliness, and organisation
• Reliability, adaptability, and a calm, professional approach
• Must be available to start work from 15th September

This rewarding role involves preparing daily meals for students aged with SEMH needs, working within a nurturing, structured environment. The successful candidate will play a key part in the school day by ensuring pupils receive healthy, balanced meals that support both their learning and wellbeing.

About Smart Education

Smart Education is a specialist Education and Early Years agency, recruiting for both permanent and temporary roles including Teachers, Teaching Assistants, SEND, Nursery Nurses, and Tutors. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check. It is an offense to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity with children.

If you're a passionate School Cook looking to make a difference in a supportive SEMH environment, we d love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the Smart Education team.