Quick overview
Job description
The Role:
The Kitchen Program Assistant plays a key role in supporting the Kitchen Garden Coordinator to deliver a vibrant, hands-on program that inspires a sense of wonder and curiosity in students about food, its origin and the history behind recipes.
The program works with students in Years 3 & 4 and is based around the journey of growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing food. The successful candidate will bring a genuine interest in food, cooking and sustainability, along with the ability to build positive relationships with students to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
This role assists with the preparation of each session, ensuring the kitchen is maintained as a clean, safe and well-organised learning area. There are times when the Kitchen Program Assistant will support and brief visiting volunteers and occasionally purchase ingredients.
This role is a 12-month contract for 2027 and based at the Kew campus. This position is part time (0.4FTE) and only required during term-time. The usual days for the program as Tuesday and Thursday.
Duties & Responsibilities
Program Planning and Preparation
- Plan with the Kitchen Garden Coordinator and Gardening Coordinator to maintain an exemplary cooking program for the Year 3 and 4 students
- Set up the kitchen prior to lessons
- Supervise student clean-up of kitchen and classroom
- Maintain general cleanliness, (non-industrial) equipment and materials
- Purchase ingredients as needed
Brief adult helpers before cooking sessions
Experience as an accomplished cook (highly skilled home cooks are welcomed)
Proven organisational skills with strong accuracy and attention to detail
Demonstrated oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills
Demonstrated exemplary rapport and relationships with children
Proven ability to work as a team member
Proven ability to maintain the confidence and respect of staff, students and parents
Ability to meet the energetic and physical demands of the role, including standing for long periods, lifting and carrying
Ability to work calmly and effectively in a fast-paced environment
First Aid, CPR & Anaphylaxis certificate (or willing to obtain)
Food Handling Certificate (or willing to obtain)