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Permanent Cook – Cardfields Residential Outdoor Centre
About the Role
Cardfields is a residential outdoor centre based in Essex, providing recreational and outdoor educational experiences for schools, community groups, and private hire. We are seeking a passionate Cook to join our team on a permanent basis.
Location: Essex – Approximately 40 minutes from London Liverpool Street by train, easily accessible by car or coach. The area offers recreational opportunities such as:
- Colchester Castle
- Colchester Zoo
- The River Chelmer
- Marsh Farm
We serve high-quality, fresh meals to diverse groups, including children, young people, and adults. Cardfields is a dynamic environment for creating amazing experiences outdoors, and we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier culinary standards.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook high-quality dishes in alignment with our menu standards.
- Incorporate garden-grown produce where possible.
- Maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness standards in the kitchen.
- Work efficiently under pressure, particularly during busy service periods.
Requirements
- Proven experience in a professional kitchen environment.
- Valid Food Hygiene Certificate.
- Exceptional attention to detail with a "can-do" attitude.
- Ability to be flexible and adaptable to meet business demands.
- Skills in budgeting and portion control.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, if required.
Contact for Further Information
For discussions or inquiries about this role, please reach out to:
Elaine Clarke Email: [email protected] Phone: 01245 380371
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Cardfields manages this recruitment process internally and kindly requests that agencies do not contact us regarding this vacancy.
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About You – Working at Islington Council
About Islington
Islington is a borough rich in culture and diversity. As a council, we embody our mission to "serve"—embodied in our logo—by actively challenging inequality and empowering all residents.
Our core values, "CARE" (collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, empowering), define how we operate and deliver public service.
Our Offer
Starting at Islington Council provides:
- 31 days of paid leave per year, increasing to 36 after 5 years of local government service.
- A 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements.
- Material learning and development opportunities to enhance your career.
- Competitive pay, with a commitment to paying the London Living Wage or above as standard.
- Excellent pension scheme tailored for public sector employees.
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
- Local discounts on dining, retail, health, and beauty services.
Priority Note: Priority will be given to candidates at risk of redundancy within Islington Council, with those eligible for redeployment prioritised for shortlisting.
Workforce Equality, Equity & Inclusion Statement
Our Commitment
Islington Council firmly believes in fostering an inclusive, equitable, and equitable workplace. Our culture is dedicated to upholding zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or victimisation based on protected characteristics, including:
- Race
- Disability
- Sexual orientation
- Sex/gender
- Religion/belief
- Age
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy/maternity
We utilise an intersectional lens to recognise unique challenges faced at the intersection of multiple identities, actively working to dismantle systemic barriers.
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Support Structure
Our Colleague Forums, trade unions, and Corporate Management Team allies collaboratively monitor and refine our policies to create a safe, supportive environment for all.
Embodying "CARE" values, we encourage every employee to contribute to a more equal Islington.
Data-Driven Action
We assess work practices with a focus on equality outcomes, ensuring our policies reflect diversity at all levels.
Pre-Employment Checks
Before commencing employment, we require all applicants to successfully complete:
- Proof of address
- Evidence of name changes (if applicable)
- UK Right-to-Work confirmation
- Disclosure checks (overseas criminal record check if requested)
- References (satisfactory)
- Occupational Health clearance (if applicable)
- Verification of professional qualifications/registrations
- DBS Disclosure check (at an appropriate level)
Safeguarding Commitment
As a safeguarding-responsive organisation, all staff and volunteers are expected to reflect our commitment to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This position requires:
- An enhanced DBS check with an emphasis on the children barred list.
- Submission to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (special exemptions apply).
- Reference checks spanning the last 3–5 years.
Disability Confident Scheme
Please note that priority interviews will be guaranteed for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria. Islington commits to providing reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
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