Programme jobs in United Kingdom

Job Ref No. ECC3252-219S. Position Type: Catering. Pay Range: Scale 2, Point 3 (Range 3-4). Position Start Date: Immediate. Contract Type: Part-time. Contract Term: Permanent. Application Close: 22/02/2026 Midnight. Date of Interviews: Thursday 26th February 2026. Merrylands Primary School and Nursery has an exciting opportunity for a Catering Assistant to join the team as soon as possible. The hours will be 12:15pm to 2:15pm, Monday to Friday, 10 hours per week, term time only for 38 weeks per year. Actual Salary: £5,768 per annum (includes paid annual leave, which must be taken during closure periods).

Closing Date: Midnight on 22nd February 2026. Interview Date: Thursday 26th February 2026.

School

Merrylands Primary School and Nursery is one of 11 schools which form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk). The Trust aims to foster high aspiration, enjoyment of learning, academic success and lifelong skills for all pupils. The Trust is growing rapidly and is a vibrant place to learn and work.

• Maintain an efficient, clean and organised busy school kitchen in accordance with food hygiene and health & safety regulations.
• Ensure all kitchen utensils, pots, pans, dishes, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards throughout the kitchen area, including floors, work surfaces and equipment.
• Assist the kitchen team with food preparation and any other tasks as required.

• A forward looking school dedicated to the success of all children and staff
• A commitment to continued professional development
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their families

Berlesduna is a Trust that values and invests in staff, with excellent training, development and planned career progression.

We welcome visits to the school prior to application. Visits can be arranged by contacting Michelle Challis at mchallis@merrylands-pri.essex.sch.uk or by phone 01268 417893.

Please complete the application in full; incomplete applications will not be considered. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early, so submit your application at your earliest convenience.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We may review the internet and social media relating to shortlisted candidates as part of the screening process. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.

We are an equal opportunities employer.

Should you require any further documentation please contact us.

Merrylands Primary School and Nursery has an excellent reputation in the local community. We are one of ten schools that form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background.

All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.

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Kitchens: Kitchen/ Catering roles at other Berlesduna Trust schools with closing dates listed below.

Southview School, Witham — Catering Assistant — Closing: 22/02/2026 Midnight

Thriftwood School, Chelmsford — Catering Assistant — Closing: 23/02/2026 Midday

Northlands Primary School and Nursery, Basildon — Catering/Kitchen Assistant — Closing: 23/02/2026 Midnight