College Chef Supervisor

East Lancashire Learning Group; Nelson; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Workplace pension scheme

Generous annual leave

Enhanced occupational sick pay

Health & wellbeing benefits

Staff recognition scheme and long‑serv

Job summary

East Lancashire Learning Group is seeking a Catering Supervisor for its Nelson & Colne College campus. You will lead the refectory team, prepare and serve high‑quality meals and help create contemporary menus aligned with trends.

You will work closely with the Catering Manager to maintain safety, hygiene and a positive learner and staff dining experience across sites.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths and English at grade C/4.
• NVQ Level 2 Catering or equivalent.
• Solid knowledge of COSHH and basic food hygiene requirements.
• Proficient IT skills and awareness of college IT systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily food preparation and service in a college refectory setting.
• Support Catering Manager and team to deliver quality and safe food.
• Develop menus reflecting current trends and dietary requirements.
• Ensure kitchen operates efficiently with strong teamwork and communication.
• Assist with events and hospitality across college sites.

Skills

Excellent customer service

COSHH & food hygiene knowledge

Competent IT skills

Suitability to work with children/youg

Education

GCSEs including Maths & English (C/4)

NVQ Level 2 Catering qualification

Job description

As a key member of the Catering Team, you will play a vital role in delivering an outstanding food service experience for learners, staff and visitors. Working closely with the Catering Manager and Refectory Team Leader, you'll play a pivotal role in preparing and serving high=quality, nutritious food, developing exciting and contemporary menus, and bringing fresh ideas inspired by current food trends. As a Supervisor, you'll support and motivate the Catering Team, ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly, efficiently and safely while maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation and hygiene. The role will be based at our Nelson & Colne College campus however, travel across sites may be required.

• Work alongside the Catering Manager to help improve and grow the college Refectory offer for our learners and staff.
• Oversee daily food preparation, ensuring high standards of taste, presentation, and nutritional value.
• Prepare and cook high-quality food, while developing and refreshing menus ideas that reflect current food trends, to enhance the learner experience while catering for any dietary requirements.
• Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently during service, with strong teamwork and communication
• Oversee the day to day running of the kitchen in the absence of the Catering Manager.
• Assist with the organisation and delivery of college events and hospitality.
• Lead and assist the Catering Team with the preparation, cooking and service arrangements within the Refectory.
• Minimum of 4 GCSE qualifications (or equivalent) including grade C/4 in Maths and English and a basic food hygiene certificate
• NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent) Catering qualification
• Strong preparation and cooking skills within a fast-paced catering environment
• Experience of managing stock control, including monitoring levels, ordering supplies and ensuring adequate stock availability.
• Excellent customer service skills
• Comprehensive understanding of COSHH and food hygiene requirements
• Competent IT skills
• Suitability to work with children, young people and/or vulnerable adults
• Access to a workplace pension scheme - with generous employer contributions
• Generous annual leave allowance including a two-week closure over the Christmas period
• Enhanced occupational sick pay scheme and access to family friendly policies and benefits
• A range of health and wellbeing benefits and support
• Staff recognition scheme, including long service awards
• Free on-site parking on all College sites