Catering Manager - Chelmsford School

Prospero Teaching; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee wellbeing programme

Local Government Pension Scheme

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Prospero Teaching is seeking a Catering Manager in Chelmsford, Essex to lead our school catering provision and ensure nutritious meals for students and staff. You will manage day-to-day operations, lead a catering team, plan menus that meet statutory standards and oversee budgeting and stock control.

The role focuses on high food quality, safe practices, and a welcoming dining experience within a busy school environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a catering management role within a school or similar environment.
• Strong leadership, planning and financial management abilities.
• Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and health and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operation of the school kitchen and dining facilities.
• Lead, motivate and develop the catering team.
• Plan and deliver nutritious, appealing menus that meet statutory school food standards.
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and safeguarding requirements.
• Monitor budgets, purchasing and stock control.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation and customer service.
• Collaborate with school leaders to improve catering services.
• Organise events, themed menus and hospitality catering as required.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Food safety knowledge

Budgeting

Menu planning

Education

Level 3 Food Safety

Catering/food service qualification

Job description

Catering Manager

Location: Chelmsford, Essex Full Time | Term Time Plus Additional Days

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Join Our Team as Catering Manager

We are seeking an enthusiastic, organised and experienced Catering Manager to lead our school catering provision and ensure the delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals for our students and staff.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual who is passionate about food, customer service, and creating a positive dining experience within a busy and vibrant school environment.

About the Role

As Catering Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the school's catering operation, overseeing meal preparation, food safety, stock control, budgeting, and the leadership of the catering team.

You will play a key role in promoting healthy eating, maintaining excellent food standards, and ensuring a welcoming dining experience for all members of our school community.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operation of the school kitchen and dining facilities.
• Lead, motivate and develop the catering team.
• Plan and deliver nutritious, appealing menus that meet statutory school food standards.
• Ensure compliance with all food hygiene, health and safety, and safeguarding requirements.
• Monitor budgets, purchasing and stock control effectively.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation and customer service.
• Work closely with school leaders to develop and improve catering services.
• Organise special events, themed menus and hospitality catering as required.

The Successful Candidate Will Have

• Previous experience in a catering management role.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and health and safety requirements.
• Excellent organisational and financial management abilities.
• A commitment to promoting healthy eating among young people.
• The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Relevant food hygiene qualifications (Level 3 Food Safety qualification desirable).

What We Offer

• A supportive and welcoming school community.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Access to a comprehensive employee wellbeing programme.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (where applicable).
• A rewarding opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of young people every day.

Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.