Head Chef – Ware, HERTFORDSHIRE

Holroyd Howe; Ware; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider is seeking a Head Chef to oversee meal preparation for 340 pupils at Heath Mount School. You'll manage a team, create nutritious menus, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations, all while fostering a positive kitchen environment. The role offers competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and a strong work-life balance.

Benefits

Free meals whilst at work

Career development opportunities

Employee Assistance Program

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership role within a kitchen environment, preferably in schools.
• Understanding of allergens, special diets, and nutritional requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee preparation and delivery of meals for pupils and staff.
• Collaborate with the Catering Manager to manage kitchen operations.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and safety.

Skills

Leadership in kitchen environment

Food hygiene management

Menu planning

Communication skills

Education

Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery

Level 2 or 3 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate

Job description

Head Chef – Ware, HERTFORDSHIRE

Company Description

Job Title: Head Chef

Location: Heath Mount School, Ware, Hertfordshire

Working Pattern: Term-time plus (190 days) – Monday to Friday

Why Join Us?

• £35,000 per annum.
• 190 days, Monday–Friday schedule.
• Located in Ware, Hertfordshire, Heath Mount School offers a stunning and inspiring environment.
• Serve 340 pupils and 100+ staff in a vibrant school community.
• Be part of a dynamicteam of 12 staff.
• Enjoy extended school holiday breaks and an exceptional work-life balance

As Head Chef at Heath Mount School, you’ll take charge of delivering exceptional meals in a nurturing school setting. You’ll work closely with the Catering Manager to oversee food preparation, service, and kitchen operations while ensuring high standards of quality and hygiene.

This role is perfect for someone passionate about creating high-quality meals, fostering a strong team culture, and providing positive dining experiences for students and staff alike.

If you’re ready to step into this exciting opportunity, we’d love to hear from yo

Job Description

• Oversee the preparation and delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals for 340 pupils and 100 staff.
• Collaborate with the Catering Manager to manage a team of 12 kitchen staff, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Develop creative and seasonal menus that meet dietary and nutritional needs.
• Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, safety, and compliance with regulations.
• Manage stock levels, food orders, and budgets efficiently.
• Foster a positive and productive kitchen environment, supporting team development and performance.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery, City & Guilds Diploma, or equivalent.
• Up-to-date Level 2 or 3 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate (essential).
• Proven experience in a leadership role within a kitchen environment, preferably in schools, education, or high-volume catering.
• Understanding of allergens, special diets, and nutritional requirements for children and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and inspire a team effectively.
• Competence in stock control, budgeting, and menu planning.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with staff and clients.
• Experience in seasonal menu creation and familiarity with term-time working environments (desirable).

Additional Information

There are many advantages to working for us and we provide our employees with bespoke benefits which include:

• Free meals whilst at work
• Career development opportunities
• HIT Apprenticeships for all experience levels
• Reward & recognition schemes
• People awards to celebrate our employees
• Work/life balance
• Employee Benefits Platform
• Employee Assistance Program
• Recommend a friend scheme
• Company sick pay scheme
• Prestigious working environments
• Team events scheduled throughout the year
• Pension scheme
• Competitive salary

We invest in the training and development of our teams to give them the appropriate skills necessary to thrive in their job roles. We have outstanding teams of experienced professionals who tailor our catering service provision specifically to suit children, of all ages, meeting the bespoke requirements of our clients.

“Holroyd Howe is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all employees to share this commitment. All roles within Holroyd Howe are regarded as regulated activity and therefore we require an Enhanced DBS which includes a Barred List Check for all successful applicants. We will also require shortlisted applicants to provide appropriate information regarding their criminal offences.”

This appointment is offered on the return of satisfactory professional references.

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