Relief Cook

Aspens Services; Crewe; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A market-leading contract caterer is seeking a Relief Cook to lead culinary efforts in schools. In this role, you will craft and deliver nutritious menus for students and staff, ensuring strict compliance with food safety regulations. Ideal candidates are passionate and self-motivated with experience in cooking and knowledge of health and safety practices. The position offers a work-life balance with no late nights or weekends, at £15 per hour for 25 hours a week during school term time.

Benefits

Great work-life balance

Career growth opportunities

Dedicated Learning & Development team

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a catering environment focused on fresh ingredients.
• Excellent knowledge of Health and Safety practices.
• Passionate and self-motivated Cook willing to mentor a team.

Responsibilities

• Expert preparation of menus using excellent craft skills.
• Ensure compliance with Food Hygiene and Health and Safety regulations.
• Manage high-quality hospitality requests for school clients.
• Develop strong relationships with clients and students.

Skills

Experience in catering environment

Knowledge of Health and Safety practices

Passion for cooking

Strong leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

Certification in Food Hygiene level 2 & 3

Job description

Summary

Aspens Services is a market‑leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don’t just serve meals–we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen.

Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

The role

As a Relief Cook in one of our schools, you will be the culinary leader responsible for crafting and delivering a healthy, nutritious and truly fun menu for students and staff alike. We’re looking for someone with the flair, originality and leadership skills to deliver the highest quality food and service to the schools within your area, making our offer the absolute best.

This position requires a full UK driving licence to enable you to travel between schools.

Your responsibilities will include

• Menu Excellence: Expert preparation of our menus using excellent craft skills and fresh ingredients.
• Safety Champion: Ensuring strict compliance with all Food Hygiene, Allergen, and Health and Safety regulations.
• Excellent Hospitality: Managing and producing high‑quality hospitality requests for school clients and special events.
• Building Community: Developing strong, friendly relationships with both the school client and the students you serve.

About you

We need a passionate, self‑motivated Cook who is ready to mentor a team and raise the bar for school dining.

A full UK driving licence to enable you to travel between schools

• Proven experience in a catering environment, focusing on using fresh ingredients, ideally with knowledge of education catering.
• Excellent knowledge of Health and Safety practices and certification in Food Hygiene level 2 & 3 (further development training is available)
• You’re self‑motivated, take initiative, and have a passion for learning and achieving goals while effectively motivating others.

Why Join the Aspens Family?

Great Work‑Life Balance: You’ll work Monday to Friday during school term time – that means no late nights, no weekends and no working at Christmas!

25 hours per week

38 weeks per year – what will you do with all that time off?

£15 per hour

Career Growth and Development

Join a fast‑growing, ambitious company. We have no ceiling in terms of where you can take your career in catering.

Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses to help you constantly develop your skills.

Ready to start a rewarding career with amazing hours? Apply today!

All staff must share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children / young people. The company will seek an enhanced DBS disclosure.