Head Chef

Sodexo; Great Glen; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mental health support

Employee Assistance Programme

Bike to Work Scheme

Discounts through Sodexo Scheme

Mercer Aspire Pension Plan

Learning and development opportunities

Free onsite parking

Free lunch

Job summary

Leicester Grammar School Trust in Great Glen near Leicester is seeking a Head Chef to lead daily kitchen operations for pupils and staff, balancing quality, nutrition and cost. You will manage a catering team, plan menus, handle stock and ensure cleanliness and safety across the kitchen.

The successful candidate will have NVQ Level 2 in Food Production and a Food Hygiene certificate, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Food Production (or equivalent) and Food Hygiene certificate.
• Proven experience as a Chef in a busy, customer-facing environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Solid organisational and time management skills.
• Financial awareness with good literacy and numeracy.
• Flexible, proactive and able to work under pressure.
• Ability to maintain high standards and develop team performance.

Responsibilities

• Support the Catering Manager in running daily kitchen operations.
• Lead and inspire the catering team, providing training and clear direction.
• Plan menus that balance quality, nutrition and cost-efficiency.
• Manage stock, food costs, margins and supplier orders.
• Oversee food preparation, service and kitchen cleanliness.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, allergens, and health & safety standards.
• Maintain high food quality and adapt menus to suit customer needs and trends.
• Deliver efficient, timely service across all catering areas.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Organisation

Numeracy

Pressure management

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Food Production

Food Hygiene certificate

Job description

LocationLeicester Grammar School
Days/Shift Pattern Monday - Friday
Working Hour7am - 3pm
Total Hours Per Week 40 hours per week
Salary £32000 with excellent benefits including, free onsite parking and free lunch's

Located in the beautiful Leicestershire village of Great Glen, with easy access to Leicester and Market Harborough, Leicester Grammar School Trust is a family of three thriving schools united by a shared commitment to educational excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and strong community values.

Rooted in a Christian ethos, we inspire pupils to be Caring, Creative, Curious, and Committed, helping them develop the confidence, character, and ambition to succeed both academically and personally. Our supportive and collaborative culture ensures that every child and every colleague is known, valued, and encouraged to flourish.

If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a welcoming, forward-thinking school community, we would love to hear from you.

The Role

As Head Chef, you'll have the opportunity to play a central role in enhancing the daily experience of pupils and staff alike, contributing to a vibrant school culture that champions quality, innovation and excellence in every aspect of school life.

• Support the Catering Manager in running daily kitchen operations
• Lead and inspire the catering team, providing training and clear direction
• Plan menus that balance quality, nutrition and cost-efficiency
• Manage stock, food costs, margins and supplier orders
• Oversee food preparation, service and kitchen cleanliness
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, allergens, and health & safety standards
• Maintain high food quality and adapt menus to suit customer needs and trends
• Deliver efficient, timely service across all catering areas

What We're Looking For

• NVQ Level 2 in Food Production (or equivalent) and Food Hygiene certificate
• Proven experience as a Chef in a busy, customer-facing environment
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Good communication and teamwork abilities
• Solid organisational and time management skills
• Financial awareness with good literacy and numeracy
• Flexible, proactive and able to work under pressure
• Ability to maintain high standards and develop team performance

What We Offer

• Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
• An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
• Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
• Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
• A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.

Ready to Be Part of Something Greater?

If you're looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it.