Kitchen Porter

Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Kitchen Porter to join our well-established and friendly team at a prestigious private co-educational school location in Reading, Berkshire. This organization serves 1,540 students and staff daily, providing meals throughout breakfast, lunch, dinner, and breaks. This permanent full-time role involves working 40 hours weekly over a 7-day operational cycle, with a 5-days-on, 2-days-off schedule during the 45 weeks term-time plus contract. Free on-site parking is available.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain impeccable hygiene and safety standards to keep the kitchen clean and orderly.
• Carry out pot washing duties efficiently, ensuring all utensils and kitchenware are spotless.
• Assist chefs with basic food preparation tasks as required.
• Clean and maintain all kitchen equipment thoroughly, including heavy catering machinery, following specific cleaning instructions and using appropriate materials.
• Operate the industrial dishwasher safely and effectively.

Candidate Profile

• Experience as a Kitchen Porter is preferred but not essential.
• A positive, proactive 'can do' attitude is highly valued.
• Strong organizational skills to manage duties effectively.
• Excellent teamwork and customer service skills.
• Reasonable proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Prior experience in customer service or food preparation environments is advantageous.

Benefits

• Access to wider wallet scheme offering discounts across retailers, dining, and fitness facilities.
• Complimentary meals during work hours.
• Up to one day of volunteer leave annually.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave options.
• Cycle to work scheme participation.
• Referral bonus for recommending friends.
• Comprehensive individual training and development programs.
• Established apprenticeship schemes.
• Company and team social events.
• Employee assistance program.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• Opportunity for career advancement within a leading independent caterer.

Additional Information

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. The selection process includes enhanced DBS checks, identity verification, and references covering the last five years. Compliance with DBS codes of practice and safeguarding policies is mandatory. Candidates must declare any criminal convictions or cautions due to the exempt status under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 for roles in schools.

Diversity and Inclusion

We encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive and growth-oriented workplace culture. We especially invite candidates from underrepresented groups, recognizing that diversity enhances results and workplace experience.