Chef

Civic Recruitment Limited; Bransgore; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local catering service seeks a Chef/Cook for a one-year contract at Swanwick Secure Home in Hampshire, England. The role involves preparing nutritious meals for young residents and supervising a team of catering assistants. Candidates should have a Level 2 in Food and Cooking, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a compassionate approach towards vulnerable young people. This opportunity supports high-quality meal provision while maintaining excellent hygiene standards.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of contract experience in catering.
• Willingness to achieve Level 2 in Food Safety within 3 months.
• Experience with allergens and safe food practices.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious meals following strict dietary needs.
• Supervise and direct catering assistants.
• Assist with food ordering and monitoring kitchen hygiene standards.

Skills

Food and Cooking Level 2

Food Safety Level 2

Supervision of kitchen staff

Understanding of health and safety regulations

Compassion for vulnerable youth

Job description

Contract | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom

Posted On 21/01/2026

Job Information

Work Experience 1-3 years

Food / Catering / Hospitality

City Bransgore

Province Hampshire

Postal Code BH23

Job Description

1 year contract with a Local Authority>

Job Summary:

• • The Chef/Cook will work at Swanwick Secure Home, preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for young people aged 11–17, including those with special dietary needs.
• • This temporary role supports the Chef Manager in delivering a high-quality catering service while maintaining strict hygiene, safety, and nutritional standards.
• • The post involves menu planning, stock control, supervising catering assistants, and collaborating with care staff to ensure meals meet residents’ needs and expectations.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• • Prepare and cook meals in line with nutritional standards and residents’ dietary requirements, including modified meals following IDDSI guidelines.
• • Supervise and organise tasks for catering assistants, managing team workflow efficiently.
• • Assist the Chef Manager with ordering food and cleaning supplies, monitoring budgets, and checking deliveries for quality compliance.
• • Monitor and maintain high standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness in all kitchen areas.
• • Plan menus in consultation with the Chef Manager and care staff, adapting for special events or individual resident needs.
• • Support meal service as required, ensuring presentation and dietary requirements are met.
• • Maintain kitchen equipment in safe working order and report any faults promptly.
• • Minimise waste and promote recycling practices within the team.
• • Show compassion and understanding toward residents, participating in meetings and responding to feedback for service improvement.
• • Deputise for the Chef Manager when required, providing support across all catering operations.

Skills/Experience:

• • 2 in Food and Cooking (or equivalent).
• • Level 2 in Food Safety (or willing to complete within 3 months of starting).
• • Awareness of allergens and safe food preparation practices.
• • Experience supervising kitchen staff or assisting in a catering team.
• • Understanding of health and safety and hygiene regulations in a professional kitchen.
• • Compassion and understanding when working with vulnerable young people.

Additional Information:

• • Enhanced DBS for children and adults.
• • Level 2/3 in Diet and Nutrition (Desirable).
• • Located at Swanwick Secure Home, Southampton, Hampshire.