School Cook

Pertemps Bond; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced School Cook for a primary or high school in Edinburgh. Responsibilities include preparing nutritious meals, maintaining food safety records, and ensuring a hygienic kitchen environment. The role requires a recognized cookery qualification or relevant experience, along with knowledge of catering practices. Ideal candidates should have excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering high-quality meals to children. Work hours are Monday to Thursday from 08:00-14:00, with a pay rate of £13.79 per hour.

Qualifications

• Hold or be working towards a cookery qualification.
• Knowledge of safe use of catering equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with pupils and staff.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a full range of school meals.
• Complete food safety documentation.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards in the kitchen.

Skills

Catering equipment knowledge

Food preparation techniques

Health and safety awareness

Effective communication

Education

Recognised cookery qualification (e.g. City & Guilds, SVQ)

Job description

Pertemps are currently recruiting for a School Cook based in Edinburgh to support a busy primary or high school kitchen.

Location : Edinburgh West

Hours : Monday to Thursday - 08.00-14.00

Rate of pay : £13.79 per hour

Duration : Temporary Ongoing (Term Time Only)

Start date : Immediate

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Cook to join a busy school catering team, helping to provide nutritious, child-friendly meals to pupils and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook a full range of school meals following set menus, recipes, and nutritional guidelines suitable for children and young people.
• Complete all food safety documentation including Cook Safe, allergen records, temperature checks, and service specifications.
• Carry out daily and weekly kitchen audits, such as cleaning schedules and compliance checks.
• Receive, check, and store food deliveries safely, ensuring stock rotation and correct labelling.
• Maintain excellent standards of hygiene, health and safety within the school kitchen, reporting any concerns to supervisors.
• Support with counter set‑up, food presentation, and serving meals to pupils and staff.
• Assist with placing orders for food and non‑food supplies.
• Support the preparation and delivery of school events or functions as required.
• Undertake manual handling tasks including lifting heavy pots, pans, and food containers.
• Stand for prolonged periods and work efficiently to ensure meals are served on time within tight schedules.

The Successful Candidate Should:

• Hold or be working towards a recognised cookery qualification (e.g. City & Guilds, SVQ) or have relevant experience in a school or similar environment.
• Have knowledge of safe use of catering equipment, food preparation techniques, and kitchen safety practices.
• Communicate effectively with pupils, colleagues, and school staff.
• Understand key areas of Health & Safety, allergen awareness, and school catering standards.
• Demonstrate a passion for delivering high‑quality, nutritious meals for children.
• Be self‑motivated with the ability to work independently and support the team, including deputising in the absence of a supervisor.

If you are interested in this role and have the relevant abilities, please respond directly to this advert.