Cook Manager Hazelmere Junior School

Allscreens Nationwide Ltd; Colchester; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 19,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus

Uniform provided

Refer a friend bonus

Job summary

HCL Safeguarding is our priority. The Cook Manager will lead daily kitchen operations in a school setting, delivering fresh, nutritious meals and managing stock, budgets, and compliance with food safety standards.

We seek an experienced leader committed to safeguarding children, with NVQ 2/3 desirable, and a proactive, flexible approach to a term-time schedule with 27.5 hours per week and uniform provided.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Proven leadership in managing a kitchen team.
• Experience with budgeting, stock control, and ordering.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, allergens, and school food standards.
• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community.
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety knowledge

Organised

Allergen handling

Safeguarding commitment

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.

The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

Cook Manager role

As a Cook Manager, you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

Ideal Cook Manager profile

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Joining Bonus

(T&Cs apply)

per hour

(£16,654 per annum)

Hours

27.5 hours per week

Schedule

Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards

Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend

Succeed with us

• Career progression opportunities
• via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities
• Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding

• Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL - No Cost to You