Kitchen Manager

Clarendon Primary; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Clarendon Primary School in Greater Manchester is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead and manage the school catering team, delivering a high-quality, cost-effective service throughout the academic year.

You will plan seasonal menus that meet nutritional guidelines and food safety standards, oversee daily operations from 7am to 1:30pm, and work closely with the School Business Manager and Head Teacher to provide nutritious, appealing meals for pupils and staff.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing a catering service
• Strong leadership and team-motivation skills
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school catering team to deliver a high-quality, cost-effective service.
• Plan and develop appealing, seasonal menus that meet nutritional guidelines and food safety standards.
• Oversee daily catering operations, ensuring punctual service from early starts to lunch service.
• Collaborate with the School Business Manager and Head Teacher to provide nutritious meals for pupils and staff.

Job description

Job Title: Kitchen Manager

School name: Clarendon Primary School

Working Pattern: 32.5 hours a week. Term time plus 1 day

Pay Grade: Grade E 11-17 £29,071 - £32,046 pro rata

Working Hours: 6.5 hours a day 7am to 1:30pm

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing date: 1st November 2026 at 12pm

Interview Date: 8th November 2026

Start Date: To be arranged

The Role

To lead and manage the catering team within a busy school environment, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, cost-effective catering service. The role involves planning and developing appealing, seasonal menus that meet nutritional guidelines and food safety standards, while providing nutritious and enjoyable school meals that meet the needs of both pupils and staff.

About You

We are seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated and motivated individual to lead and inspire our busy school catering team. The successful candidate will have proven experience in managing a catering service, a genuine passion for food and customer service, and up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, food safety requirements and nutritional guidelines for school meals.

You will be confident working in a busy environment, able to remain calm under pressure and skilled at motivating and supporting your team to achieve high standards. You will work closely with the School Business Manager and Head Teacher, building effective working relationships to ensure the delivery of a high-quality, efficient and welcoming catering service for pupils and staff.

About Us

We can offer you a wonderful community of children who are well behaved, respectful and enthusiastic about coming to school, alongside an experienced, supportive Senior Leadership Team and wider staff team.

You will receive ongoing support in your role through appropriate training, guidance and coaching, helping you to develop your skills and reach your full potential.

At our school, we believe in working together, supporting one another and creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to shine!

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Job Description

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The School is committed to safer recruitment practice, and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and a barred list check. On-line checks will also be carried out on short-listed candidates.