We’re Hiring: Shop/Catering Assistant - Petty Pool College

The Details

Job Title: Shop/Catering Assistant
Location: Petty Pool Vocational College
Reports to: Hospitality Manager/Catering Supervisor
Salary: £23132.20 (£12.71 per hour)
Hours: 35 hours per week, between the hours of 9am and 7pm to cover residential catering activity and shop opening times within the college as required, may include some weekends
DBS: Enhanced check required
Closing Date: Wednesday 7th October 2026 4:00pm

About the Role

At the Ground Up Project, our work is driven by a mission to empower neurodivergent people through inclusive employment, meaningful professional development and community-led innovation. We believe neurodivergent talent is a vital catalyst for creativity, opportunity and positive change, and we actively foster a culture where difference is valued, growth is supported, and strong communities are built from the ground up.

We are seeking an experienced Shop/Catering Assistant who will run the daily operations of a training-focused retail food shop selling sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks, staffed by young neurodivergent students alongside catering support for residential activities taking place on site within the college.

This role blends hands-on food service and customer service instruction with individualised support, helping students build practical work skills, confidence and independence in a safe, structured and sensoryconsiderate environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Instruction & Skill Building

• Support students to develop practical shop, catering and employability skills through day-to-day workplace activities.

• Break tasks into clear, achievable steps and use visual prompts, demonstrations or checklists where appropriate.

• Encourage confidence, independence and workplace skills including communication, teamwork, customer service and following routines.

  Safety & Supervision

• Maintain safe, clean and hygienic shop, kitchen and service areas in line with food hygiene, allergen, COSHH and health & safety requirements.

• Provide appropriate supervision and support when students are serving customers, handling food, using equipment or operating tills.

• Recognise and respond appropriately to individual needs, including signs of sensory overload, frustration or dysregulation.

  Student Support

• Build positive and respectful relationships with students, adapting communication and support to individual needs.

• Work with College colleagues to follow agreed learning, support, behaviour and risk-management strategies.

• Provide positive encouragement and feedback to support students' learning, confidence and progression.

Shop & Catering Operations

• Assist with food preparation, cooking, serving, customer service, order taking and till/POS operation.

• Support stock control, ordering, deliveries, storage and replenishment across the shop and catering provision.

• Complete required food safety, cleaning, cash-handling and basic sales records accurately.

• Provide a welcoming and professional service and work flexibly across shop and catering activities to support the needs of the provision.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is friendly, reliable, and passionate about creating positive experiences for others. You’ll be a team player with great customer service skills, a proactive attitude, and a genuine commitment to inclusion. Whether supporting customers, colleagues, or our neurodiverse learners, you’ll help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

Essential:

• Proven experience working in a retail or hospitality environment

• English and Maths GCSE or equivalent at grade C or above

• Excellent interpersonal skills and effective member of the team

• Good organisational skills

• Ability to use IT skills

• Ability to keep accurate and up to date records

Desirable:

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)

• Strong communication skills and patience; ability to stay calm in stressful periods

• Barista experience

• Prior supervisory or team-led experience

• Hold or be working towards a Basic First Aid Certificate

• Experience of people with learning disabilities

• Strong knowledge of food safety, allergen management and hygiene regulations

• Full clean Driving Licence (Car)

• Knowledge of Inclusion, Equality & Diversity, Safeguarding policy

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a café with a purpose, where every shift helps create meaningful opportunities for young neurodivergent people.

• Work in a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment.

• Develop your skills while making a real difference in the local community.

• Help build confidence, independence, and opportunities for our learners and volunteers.

• Join a passionate team committed to inclusion, empowerment, and great customer experiences.

How to Apply

Please click the button below and send your CV and a cover letter outlining why you’re excited about this role and how your experience aligns with our mission.

NOTE: In accordance with Petty Pool’s flexibility policy, the post holder will be required to undertake any other duties considered commensurate with this position, as directed by The Senior Management Team of Petty Pool, or as a mutually agreed developmental opportunity.