Food and Catering Vocational Support Assistant

Role Purpose 

To support the planning and delivery of high quality – inclusive practical and engaging food and catering training that will engage and inspire children and young people with complex needs, including those with Special Educational needs (SEND) and support their preparation for adulthood/semi-independent living.

The role offers a unique opportunity to inspire and empower students by teaching essential life skills and vocational pathways in food preparation and catering.

The Food and Catering Vocational Support Assistant will create a calm, supportive and safe kitchen/classroom environment and contribute to each student personal, social and academic development through a student-centred approach, preparing them for progression into further training, education or employment.

Key Responsibilties

Learning Support
• Assist in the planning and delivery of Food Technology lessons and vocational training sessions.
• Provide tailored 121 and small group support to students with SEND needs.
• Adapt learning materials and activities to suit individual learning needs and abilities.
• Support students in developing practical food preparation, hygiene, and safety skills.

Inclusive Learning Environment
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and positive classroom environment that promotes emotional well-being and self-esteem.
• Encourage participation, independence, and resilience in all learners.
• Promote equality, diversity, and respect within the learning space.

Behaviour and Emotional Support
• Support students in managing their emotions and implementing positive engagement strategies.
• Build trusting, supportive relationships with students to help them feel secure and valued.
• Respond calmly and effectively to challenging situations, ensuring the safety and dignity of all learners.

Career Development and Employability
• Help students explore career pathways in the food and hospitality industry.
• Support the development of employability skills such as teamwork, time management, and communication.
• Assist in organising work-related learning opportunities, such as enterprise projects or visits.

Monitoring and Collaboration
• Track and record student progress, contributing to EHCP reviews and support plans.
• Provide feedback to teaching staff and contribute to planning and review meetings.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, external agencies, and families to ensure holistic support. 

Skills & Abilities

• Practical Expertise – Strong technical skills in food preparation and catering with the ability to confidently support and guide learners through a range of techniques.
• Adaptability – Able to adjust teaching methods and content to suit learners with SEND.
• Communication – Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage learners and work collaboratively with colleagues and professionals.
• De-escalation management – Skilled in managing engagement calmly and constructively.
• Relationship building – Ability to form positive trusting relationships with students who may be disengaged, anxious or lacking in confidence.
• Organisation – Strong organisational skills to manage session preparation, assessment and learner progress tracking.
• Motivational coaching – Ability to inspire learners, build self-esteem, and create a supportive encouraging learning environment.
• Health and Safety awareness – Understanding of best practices in maintaining a safe kitchen/classroom environment, including safe use of equipment and products.
• Record Keeping – competent in maintaining accurate records of attendance, progress, behaviour and assessment in line with awarding body and organisational standards.
• Empathy and Patience – emotionally intelligent, calm and patient when supporting students with complex needs or difficult life experiences.
• Digital Literacy – Able to use basic ICT tools for learner tracking and accessing qualification resources.

Experience & Qualifications 

Essential
• Experience working with children and young people with complex SEND needs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build trusting, supportive relationships with students.
• A proactive, flexible, and patient approach to supporting learning.
• Basic knowledge of food hygiene and safety e.g., Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• First Aid training (or willingness to work towards)

Desirable
• Previous industry experience in a vocational or catering setting.
• Level 2 or 3 qualification in Food Preparation, Catering, or Hospitality.
• Experience supporting accredited vocational qualifications (e.g., NCFE, ASDAN, City & Guilds).
• Understanding of career pathways in the food and hospitality industry.
• Level 2 or above qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Youth Work, or equivalent. 

Behaviours & Attitudes

• Empathy: Foster a supportive environment that encourages understanding and compassion among students and staff.
• Integrity: Uphold honesty and strong moral principles in all interactions and decisions.
• Resilience: Encourage students to develop coping strategies and the ability to bounce back from challenges.
• Trust: Build a culture of trust where students feel safe to express themselves and take risks in their learning.
• Authenticity: Encourage students to be true to themselves and embrace their individuality.
• Commitment: Instil a sense of dedication to personal growth and the learning process.
• Honesty: Promote transparency and truthfulness in all communications and assessments.
• Enjoyment: Create a joyful learning environment where students find pleasure in their educational experiences.
• Learning: Encourage a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the world.
• Respect: Cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect among students, staff, and the wider community.