407 Kitchen Help jobs in the United Kingdom

How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?

At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.

That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.

Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG.

Job Title:   Kitchen Assistant

Location:  Orchards Manor, Near Kings Lynn, Downham Market, PE34 3HT

Salary:       £12.50 per hour 

Hours:       40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only

Start:          October 2025

UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.

We are looking for a Kitchen Assistant to join our team and help create a positive, safe, and healthy dining experience for our pupils.

About the Role

As a Kitchen Assistant, you will support the Cook/Supervisor in the preparation and serving of meals, while helping to ensure the kitchen and dining areas meet high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. You'll also help supervise pupils during mealtimes, contributing to a calm and respectful dining environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals, including those with special dietary requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, dining hall, and associated equipment.
• Support food preparation for both on-site meals and for delivery to other schools if required.
• Monitor food hygiene and health and safety practices in line with legislation.
• Help ensure sufficient food stock is available and report any shortages or issues.
• Record meal numbers and report cancellations or additional meals as needed.
• Support lunchtime supervision of pupils, ensuring meals are completed safely and on time.
• Report any concerning pupil behaviour or observations to teaching staff.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Reliable and organised, with good attention to detail
• A team player with a positive attitude
• Aware of food hygiene and health & safety standards (training can be provided)
• Passionate about supporting children and young people in a school environment

About us

Orchards Manor School, part of Options Autism, is a brand-new specialist school opening near King’s Lynn in Downham Market. The school will cater for up to 72 pupils aged 5 to 16 with a variety of complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).

Orchards Manor is an independent specialist school where the curriculum is thoughtfully designed around the specific needs of autistic learners and those with related needs. Education is supported by a fully integrated on-site clinical team, ensuring a holistic, person-centred approach to learning and wellbeing.

At Orchards Manor, we are committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential.

For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.

We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.

Why join Options Autism? 

We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

Benefits

Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks

And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:

• A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
• 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
• Cycle to Work Schemes
• Electric Car Purchase Scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. 

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

*You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit

Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.

#1

How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?

At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.

That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.

Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG.

Job Title:   Kitchen Assistant

Location:  Orchards Manor, Near Kings Lynn, Downham Market, PE34 3HT

Salary:       £12.50 per hour 

Hours:       40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only

Start:          October 2025

UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.

We are looking for a Kitchen Assistant to join our team and help create a positive, safe, and healthy dining experience for our pupils.

About the Role

As a Kitchen Assistant, you will support the Cook/Supervisor in the preparation and serving of meals, while helping to ensure the kitchen and dining areas meet high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. You'll also help supervise pupils during mealtimes, contributing to a calm and respectful dining environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals, including those with special dietary requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, dining hall, and associated equipment.
• Support food preparation for both on-site meals and for delivery to other schools if required.
• Monitor food hygiene and health and safety practices in line with legislation.
• Help ensure sufficient food stock is available and report any shortages or issues.
• Record meal numbers and report cancellations or additional meals as needed.
• Support lunchtime supervision of pupils, ensuring meals are completed safely and on time.
• Report any concerning pupil behaviour or observations to teaching staff.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Reliable and organised, with good attention to detail
• A team player with a positive attitude
• Aware of food hygiene and health & safety standards (training can be provided)
• Passionate about supporting children and young people in a school environment

About us

Orchards Manor School, part of Options Autism, is a brand-new specialist school opening near King’s Lynn in Downham Market. The school will cater for up to 72 pupils aged 5 to 16 with a variety of complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).

Orchards Manor is an independent specialist school where the curriculum is thoughtfully designed around the specific needs of autistic learners and those with related needs. Education is supported by a fully integrated on-site clinical team, ensuring a holistic, person-centred approach to learning and wellbeing.

At Orchards Manor, we are committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential.

For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.

We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.

Why join Options Autism? 

We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

Benefits

Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks

And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:

• A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
• 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
• Cycle to Work Schemes
• Electric Car Purchase Scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. 

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

*You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit

Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.

#1

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Chartwells on a part time basis, contracted to 20 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: 5 out of 7 days

Please note: This role is contracted to 40.2 weeks per year

Could you bring your spark to Chartwells? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Chartwells and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.

Job Reference: com/1209/ / /IN/BU #Independent

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for CH&CO on a part time basis, contracted to 20 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Working with us has its perks! People are at the heart of everything we do, so we've developed a range of benefits and development opportunities:

• Great operational training and development
• Life assurance scheme
• Personal Development and Training opportunities - We are passionate about our growing team
• A great wellbeing strategy - including access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Regular social events and communication with our leaders
• A holiday purchase scheme
• Access to some great high street discount vouchers

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: 5 out of 7 days

Could you bring your spark to CH&CO? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing CH&CO and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Job Reference: com/1009/ / /BU #Gather and Gather

CH&CO, a part of Compass Group UK&I, is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a part time basis, contracted to 20 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: 5 out of 7 days

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.

Job Reference: com/1209/ / /R/BU #Energy

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a full time basis, contracted to 35 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: Variable shifts

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/0109/ / /BU #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a part time basis, contracted to 20 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: Variable shifts

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/0209/ / /BU #SCOT #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a full time basis, contracted to 35 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: Variable shifts

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/0209/ / /BU #SCOT #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Chartwells on a part time basis, contracted to 6 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift pattern will be:

• Mon: Evenings
• Tues:
• Weds:
• Thurs: Evenings
• Fri: Evenings
• Sat:
• Sun:

Please note: This role is contracted to 40 weeks per year

Could you bring your spark to Chartwells? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Chartwells and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our ideal Kitchen Assistant will:

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.

Job Reference: com/0809/ / /BU #Independent

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!