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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Burton upon Trent; On-site; GBP 18,928,000 - 26,957,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Refer a Friend bonus

Exclusive Vivup discounts

Uniform provided

Career progression opportunities

Wellbeing support

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) at Scientia Academy School is seeking a Cook Manager for term-time hours. You will lead and develop a kitchen team, oversee daily operations, and deliver nutritious meals to pupils and staff while upholding high standards of safety and quality.

This role requires strong leadership, budgeting and stock control, with experience in food safety and HACCP. NVQ Level 2/3 desirable. Uniform provided; staff welfare and safeguarding are central to the position.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team.
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills.
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations.
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards.
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance.
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community.
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

HACCP

Allergen awareness

Menu planning

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

Cook Manager based at Scientia Academy School 27.5 Hours

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us:

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a

Cook Manager, you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

Let's talk about the role of a Cook Manager:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Cook Manager:

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Salary: £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per annum)

Schedule: Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards: Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)

Succeed with us: Career progression opportunities

Exclusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Wellbeing matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL - No Cost to You

Cook Manager career with HCL starts here.