Job Description
Summary:
Join a school as a School Chef and contribute to a nutritious and safe catering service.
About the School:
The school is committed to providing a broad and balanced education in a happy, stimulating, and healthy environment, supporting each young person to thrive through personalized learning and strong family partnerships.
The Opportunity:
As a School Chef, you will be responsible for delivering a high-quality, safe, and nutritious catering service that meets the needs of pupils, staff, and visitors. This role offers the chance to lead a team and ensure that meals are both appetizing and aligned with dietary and budgetary requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, prepare and deliver balanced, high-quality menus that meet the dietary, cultural and medical needs of service users
- Manage and supervise kitchen staff to ensure effective daily preparation, service delivery, and a clean, efficient working environment
- Control stock levels through accurate ordering, portion control, and quality checks to stay within budget
- Maintain high standards of health and safety, food hygiene, and cleanliness in line with legislation and regulations
- Minimize food waste and respond flexibly to changes in demand, including last-minute catering requirements
- Coordinate daily meal requirements for pupils, staff, and visitors
- Place food orders, check deliveries and invoices, and liaise with suppliers regarding enquiries or complaints
- Monitor kitchen equipment and facilities, reporting any defects or maintenance needs promptly
Qualifications & Skills:
Required
- Experience of catering work within a residential, educational, or similar setting
- Experience in menu planning with an understanding of budgetary control and nutritional requirements
- Experience at a management level in a similar catering environment
- Good knowledge of catering practices, including correct use and storage of relevant products
- Good knowledge of food safety requirements and standards
Preferred
- Experience working with children or young people in an educational setting
- Experience with special dietary requirements or managing a team in a high-pressure environment
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary of £38,000 per annum
- Comprehensive pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- Health and wellbeing support, including mental health resources and physical health checks
- Flexible benefits platform with access to health, insurance, discounts, and family support schemes