Cook

Job Description

Cook – Wykebeck Court Care Home, Leeds

Bupa’s Wykebeck Court in Harehills provides person‑centred care that supports independence and choice. Our kitchen team plays a vital role in this, preparing tasty, nutritious meals that feel homely and welcoming. We’re looking for a passionate Cook to help create that experience every day.

This permanent, part‑time role is 20 hours per week, typically between 7am and 5pm (exact rota agreed locally). You’ll use fresh ingredients to produce varied, balanced menus that meet residents’ dietary needs, preferences and cultural requirements, including special diets and fortified options.

Working with and leading the small kitchen team, you’ll support training and day‑to‑day direction around food preparation, cooking and service. You’ll bring ideas for improving menus and dining experiences, from themed days to special occasions, helping residents feel at home and looked after.

You’ll follow COSHH and HACCP guidelines, Bupa policies and budgets, managing stock, orders and deliveries carefully. You’ll also help cater for events such as summer fetes, Christmas parties and birthdays, where food is a key part of making the day special.

To succeed, you’ll have previous experience in a fresh‑food kitchen, relevant food hygiene certificates and a real love of cooking for others. You’ll communicate warmly with residents and colleagues, enjoy sharing your love of food, and be open to new ideas while always maintaining high safety and quality standards.

Bupa offers strong wellbeing and financial benefits, including healthcare support, holiday, pension, travel loan, Wagestream and free meals on shift, alongside a diverse and inclusive culture that values every colleague.

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Job Data

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Skills & Competency Table

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Salaries Pay Calculator (Approximate)

Based on 20 hours per week

*Monthly and annual figures are approximate, based on 52 weeks ÷ 12.

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Job Summary

Part‑time Cook at Bupa’s Wykebeck Court care home in Leeds. Prepare nutritious, varied menus tailored to residents’ needs, lead and train a small kitchen team, and uphold high food-safety standards. Ideal for an experienced fresh‑food cook who enjoys building relationships with older people and supporting person‑centred, homely dining each day.

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FAQs

Q1. What hours will I work?
The role is 20 hours per week on a permanent, part‑time contract. Shifts fall between 7am and 5pm, with the exact rota agreed with the home manager.

Q2. Do I need previous care‑home experience?
Not necessarily. You must have experience in a fresh‑food kitchen and relevant hygiene certificates. Experience cooking for special diets or vulnerable people is an advantage.

Q3. What qualifications are required?
You’ll need up‑to‑date food hygiene certification and proven professional cooking experience. Bupa provides additional compliance training (Food Hygiene, Health & Safety, etc.) on joining.

Q4. Will I manage other staff?
Yes, you’ll help train and guide the kitchen team in preparing, cooking and serving food, and support the overall running of the kitchen.

Q5. Does Bupa offer sponsorship for this role?
No. This role is not at or above RQF Level 3 and is not eligible for sponsorship under the UK Points‑Based Immigration System. You must already have the right to work in the UK.

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Expert Analysis

This role offers solid hourly pay, strong benefits and a stable, reputable employer. It suits cooks from pubs, schools or contract catering who want more meaningful, resident‑focused work. The 20‑hour schedule supports work–life balance, but you’ll still need the stamina, organisation and leadership to run safe, efficient service every day.

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Location & Logistics Guide

Wykebeck Court sits on York Road in Harehills, LS9, east of Leeds city centre. It’s reachable by car and regular bus routes along York Road, with limited on‑street parking nearby. Plan shifts around 7am starts and 5pm finishes, especially in winter. Map: https://www.google.com/maps/place/543+York+Rd,+Leeds+LS9+6NH,+UK for route planning and travel time checks.

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Career Path

Experienced cooks joining Bupa can progress into Head Cook or Kitchen Manager roles within a single home, or move across the wider care‑home network. With strong people skills, you may develop into Hospitality, Activities or Deputy Manager positions, supported by formal training, internal vacancies and Bupa’s broader healthcare career opportunities.