Apprentice Commis Chef

Downe House; Thatcham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school is seeking an Apprentice Commis Chef to join the kitchen brigade. This role involves preparing high-quality fresh food under the guidance of experienced chefs, developing culinary skills, and complying with food hygiene standards. Ideal for candidates passionate about food and hospitality, with a strong commitment to team work. Benefits include generous pension, free meals, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

Free meals while on duty

Life insurance

Discounted school fees

Induction programme

Gym and swimming pool access

Social occasions throughout the year

Qualifications

• Previous experience in hospitality preferred but not essential.
• Keen interest in food and hospitality is a must.

Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh food to high standards.
• Assist in running the kitchen with training.
• Communicate effectively during service times.
• Ensure food hygiene and safety standards.

Skills

Passion for food

Team player

Reliability

Education

Level 2 Commis Chef qualification

Job description

Apprentice Commis Chef

• Required 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Working Monday Sunday, 5 over 7, to include 1 day at the weekend. Hours alternate weekly between 6.30am-2.30pm and 11.30am-7.30pm.
• Salary Range: GBP18,000 - GBP20,000 per annum

Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls based in Cold Ash, Berkshire. We operate an in-house fully catered service for pupils and staff which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week. In addition, we hold numerous catered events and formal dinners through the year.

Do you have a passion for food and are you keen to start a rewarding career within hospitality?

We have a fantastic opportunity to join our team as an Apprentice Commis Chef, learning to prepare and cook delicious fresh food, developing your kitchen skills and understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety. Under the guidance of our Head Chef and Sous Chef, you will work as part of a kitchen brigade of 15 to support the daily routine and banquet catering for our school community of around 900 staff and pupils. Our team values staff development and we have a successful track record of training apprentices. You will work 4 days on site and train 1 day a week at a leading catering college, Capital City College, working towards a Level 2 Commis Chef qualification.

We are looking for someone with a keen interest in food and hospitality, who is a reliable team player, and is committed to learning and developing the skills required as a Commis Chef. It is an advantage if you have previous experience of working in hospitality, but this is not essential.

Main Duties

• Prepare fresh food to consistently high standards, including meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, breakfast, banqueting and desserts.
• With training and support, assist the Head Chef and Sous Chef in the day to day running of the kitchen.
• Communicate with the front of house team during service times to ensure food levels are correct.
• Ensure that all food hygiene and health & safety requirements are carried out.

Benefits Include

• Generous pension scheme, with employer contributions at 9%
• Delicious free meals while on duty
• Life insurance & critical illness cover
• Discounted school fees
• A supportive induction programme
• Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
• Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
• A variety of social occasions throughout the year

Apply Now!

Closing date Wednesday 13th August. We will review applications upon receipt and reserve the right to interview before the closing date.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks.

At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.