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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Cobham; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 20,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a friend up to £500

Exclusive discounts via VIVUP

Wellbeing support via EAP/Stream

Enhanced DBS paid by HCL

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is looking for a Cook Manager to lead a school kitchen at St Andrew's Primary School. The role is 27.5 hours weekly during term time, with hands-on leadership of a team delivering nutritious meals.

You will manage budgets, stock, and compliance with food safety standards while fostering a positive dining experience for pupils and staff.

Qualifications

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• NVQ Level 2/3 desirable.
• Experience leading a high-performing kitchen team.
• Well-organised with strong planning and time management.
• Confident budgeting, stock and kitchen operations.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens and school food standards.
• Committed to high hygiene and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage 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 safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

Allergen handling

Hygiene standards

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

Cook Manager based at St Andrew's Primary 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:

£14.99 per hour £18,137 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

Excusive 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