Head Chef

North East Combined Authority; Newcastle upon Tyne; Remote; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Term-time only

Job summary

St John's Primary School in Newcastle upon Tyne is seeking an experienced chef to join our school kitchen on a term-time basis, 30 hours per week. You will plan menus, prepare meals and serve dishes that brighten our children’s day.

The role involves leading a team of three kitchen assistants, ensuring nutrition standards are met and efficient kitchen operations. Prior school catering experience is helpful, DBS checks will be required.

Qualifications

• Experienced chef with a track record in school or catering environments.
• Knowledge of nutrition guidelines for education settings.
• Ability to lead and develop a small kitchen team.

Responsibilities

• Plan and create menus suitable for school meals.
• Prepare and serve meals to pupils during term time.
• Manage and develop a team of three kitchen assistants.
• Ensure compliance with nutrition and food safety standards.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Menu planning

Nutrition awareness

Food safety

Education

Catering qualification

Job description

St John's Primary School

Teindland Close

Benwell

Newcastle upon Tyne

NE4 8HE

Are you an experienced chef looking to work more sociable hours to create a better work/life balance?

We're currently recruiting an experienced Chef to help us create exceptional food for our children. This is a term time only position for 30 hours per week. As a Chef, you will be responsible for creating menus, preparing and serving the kind of food that truly brightens our childrens’ days. You do not necessarily have to have school experience but awareness of nutritional requirements within education would be an advantage. You will be responsible for the management and development of a team of three kitchen assistants.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Tuesday 27th October 2026 with interviews taking place Tuesday 3rd November 2026.

St John’s Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure will be sought along with other relevant employment checks deemed appropriate.