Head of Kitchen - Primary Schools

Civic Recruitment Limited; Stapleford; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Civic Recruitment Limited in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire is recruiting for a Catering Service Lead to manage the day-to-day operation of the school kitchen at William Lilley Infant & Nursery in Nottingham. You will ensure nutritious meals for pupils and staff while maintaining high food hygiene standards and strong leadership of the catering team.

The role involves planning, supervising staff, stock control, menu development and compliance with food safety and health regulations, all within a

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a supervisory catering or kitchen role is essential.
• Experience in a catering, school, education, or similar environment is desirable.
• Strong leadership and team-management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
• Good knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff.
• Lead and supervise catering staff, allocating duties and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently.
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the school kitchen.
• Ensure all food is prepared, stored and served in accordance with food safety and health and safety requirements.
• Maintain accurate food safety and kitchen records as required.
• Monitor stock levels and place food and supply orders within agreed procedures.
• Control stock effectively and minimise waste.
• Maintain a clean, safe and well-organised kitchen environment.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately.
• Support the development of menus and ensure meals meet nutritional standards.
• Address dietary requirements and allergies appropriately.

Skills

Supervisory catering

Leadership

Food hygiene

Time management

Team management

Communication

Organisational skills

Independent working

Education

Food Hygiene qualification

Job description

Contract | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom

Posted On 26/08/2026

Job Information

Food / Catering / Hospitality

City Stapleford

Province Nottinghamshire

Postal Code NG9

Job Description

2 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the catering service at William Lilley Infant & Nursery in Nottingham, ensuring the effective day-to-day operation of the kitchen and the delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff. The post holder will be responsible for maintaining excellent food hygiene and safety standards while providing strong leadership to the catering team.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff.
• Lead and supervise catering staff, allocating duties and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently.
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the school kitchen.
• Ensure all food is prepared, stored and served in accordance with food safety, hygiene and health and safety requirements.
• Maintain accurate food safety and kitchen records as required.
• Monitor stock levels and place food and supply orders within agreed procedures.
• Control stock effectively and minimise waste.
• Maintain a clean, safe and well-organised kitchen environment.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately.
• Support the development of menus and ensure meals meet required nutritional and dietary standards.
• Ensure special dietary requirements and food allergies are appropriately managed.
• Promote high standards of cleanliness, food quality and customer service.
• Work collaboratively with school staff and the wider catering team.
• Identify and address operational issues promptly.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties consistent with the role.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a supervisory catering or kitchen role is essential .
• Experience of working within a catering, school, education or similar environment is desirable.
• Strong leadership and team-management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
• Good knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety requirements.
• Ability to maintain consistently high standards of food preparation and cleanliness.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative while also working effectively as part of a team.
• Reliable, responsible and committed to delivering high standards.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a busy kitchen environment.
• Awareness of food allergies, dietary requirements and safe food handling.
• Food Hygiene qualification or equivalent would be advantageous.

Additional Information