About Us
Freyberg High School is a co-educational state secondary school located in Palmerston North, serving students from Years 9–13. We are proud to be part of the Ministry of Education’s Healthy School Lunches Programme, an initiative focused on providing nutritious meals to support student wellbeing and learning.
As part of this programme, our dedicated team prepares and delivers approximately 2,000 healthy lunches every school day, catering not only for Freyberg High School but also for four other local schools, including primary schools. Our goal is to ensure that every student has access to balanced, high-quality meals that fuel their growth, health, and success.
Role Overview
We are seeking an energetic and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our team and work alongside the Executive Chef and Kitchen Assistants. This role is essential in maintaining smooth kitchen operations and ensuring high standards of cleanliness and food safety.
Key Responsibilities
Assist with basic food preparation tasks (peeling, chopping, portioning ingredients).
Scrape, wash, and store dishes promptly.
Clean and maintain bench tops, equipment, appliances, and utensils according to the Food Control Plan.
Perform regular general cleaning of the kitchen and canteen areas.
Follow the school’s waste management plan.
Assist the caretaking team with waste collection and disposal related to the lunch programme.
Our Ideal Candidate
Previous experience as a kitchen hand or similar role is desirable.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to hygiene standards.
Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift heavy objects.
Good communication skills and a team-oriented attitude.
Willingness to learn and take direction from the Executive Chef.
Flexible and adaptable to changes in an evolving operation.
Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices is an advantage.
Has a Full Drivers Licence.
Additional Information
Please Note: In accordance with the Education Act 2020 and the Children's Act 2014, a police vet will be required.
This is a permanent position of 32.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, term time only (40 weeks), although some flexibility is a must. The terms and conditions of employment will be those set out in the School Caretakers’, Cleaners’ and Canteen Staff Collective Agreement (SCCCCA 2025–2027).
If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and ready to make a positive impact in our school community, we’d love to hear from you!
Interviewing of candidiates will commence immediately and will continue until we make an appointment.