Catering Assistant

Looking for a term time catering role?

Thinking Food are seeking a Catering Assistant to join their team based at Lodestar Academy in Torquay.  The successful candidate will be accountable to the Catering Manager working as part of the team providing nutritious and balanced meals to our students, whilst promoting healthy eating. 

The Catering Assistant will assist the team in the preparation, cooking and serving of food & beverages and to ensure that kitchen is kept in a hygienic condition.  This will include preparation of food, serving of meals, general kitchen and cleaning duties as directed ensuring the smooth running of the kitchen in compliance with relevant Health & Safety and Food Hygiene requirements.

If you have experience within the catering industry and are looking for a role that is term-time only and Monday to Friday then we are looking for you to apply.  

Thinking Food - Feeding Students, Fueling Learning

At Thinking Food, we believe that when we feed students well, we feed their potential. Everything we do is driven by one purpose: to create nutritious, enjoyable, and reliable meals that help every young person learn, focus, and thrive.

Our team understands that great food is more than a meal—it’s fuel for education. From breakfast that kick-starts the day to lunches that help students stay energised and engaged, we support learning by providing food that is fresh, safe, high‑quality, and prepared with care.

We take pride in ensuring every dish meets strong standards for nutrition, safety, inclusion, and consistency, so families and schools know they can trust what we serve. We are continually improving, innovating, and listening to the needs of our students and school communities.

If you want to be part of a team that feeds students, supports learning, and makes every school day better, you’ll fit right in with us.

Lodestar Academy, located in Torbay, is a dynamic and highly regarded institution, dedicated to providing exceptional education for young people aged 11-18. We believe that every young person, regardless of their background or life challenges, has the potential to succeed. Our mission is to empower those, particularly those facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges, who have been excluded or marginalised from mainstream education.

At Lodestar Academy, we create a safe, nurturing environment for 50 secondary-aged students who have struggled in traditional school settings. Through a tailored approach that prioritises academic achievement alongside behaviour interventions and therapeutic support, we help our students reintegrate at the same key stage as their peers and open the door to future opportunities in employment and further education.

With a recent Ofsted rating of "Good," Lodestar Academy is recognised for its commitment to the welfare of students and their families.

As Ofsted put it,"The welfare of pupils and their families is at the heart of The Lodestar Academy."

Join us in helping to unlock the full potential of every student and provide them with the support they deserve.

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision.

We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances.  That’s why we invest in our people, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.

Learn more about our Vision and Values here

Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?

We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:

Career Development: We are committed to supporting your professional growth and offer a wide range of opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships, we provide clear pathways for progression and promotional opportunities across our regions.

Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing support, preferential access to Benenden Health, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers.

Employee Recognition: Referral Scheme, Long Service Awards and the TSTARS Recognition Programme.

TSAT Benefits Portal: A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback from supermarkets and high street retailers, dental insurance scheme, Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym membership.

Blue Light Card: Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions. 

What you need to do now:

If you are interested in working at our friendly school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today!

Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.

To arrange an informal chat with the line manager or arrange a visit to the school, please contact Paula George ([email protected])

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates. If you have any questions regarding this process, please email[email protected]