School Chef

Ace Academics Consultancy; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Ace Academics Consultancy is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead school kitchen operations in a small, vibrant setting in Kensington & Chelsea, Greater London. You will oversee menu planning, food preparation, and delivery of balanced meals for learners.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, food safety, allergen management, and collaboration with school leadership to tailor menus to learners' needs. This ongoing position offers stability and day-to-day variety in a close-knit team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior kitchen role.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and nutrition guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Leading kitchen operations, including menu planning, preparation, and delivery of balanced meals
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and compliance with nutrition standards
• Supervising and motivating kitchen staff
• Ensuring high standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation
• Working collaboratively with leadership to tailor menus to the needs of learners

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Stock control

Food safety

Allergen management

Job description

Head Chef - (School Catering)

£18.50 - 21/hour

Location

Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London

Are you an experienced and passionate Head Chef looking for a rewarding role where you can make a real difference? We're seeking a dedicated culinary professional to lead and manage our kitchen operations in a smaller, vibrant school setting. This is an ongoing position ideal for someone who enjoys variety, creativity, and the opportunity to deliver high-quality meals in a supportive, close-knit environment. You'll be working with a relatively small number of learners, helping to provide nutritious, appealing food that supports their well-being and development.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading kitchen operations, including menu planning, preparation, and delivery of balanced meals
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and compliance with nutrition standards
• Supervising and motivating kitchen staff
• Ensuring high standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation
• Working collaboratively with leadership to tailor menus to the needs of learners

About You

• Proven experience in a senior kitchen role (catering, hospitality, or education preferred)
• Strong leadership and organisational skills
• Knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and nutrition guidelines
• Friendly, flexible, and able to thrive in a smaller, community-focused setting
• A real team player who takes pride in delivering high-quality meals every day

Why Join Us?

• Ongoing role with stability and growth potential
• Work in a small school environment where your contribution is valued
• Less pressure than larger institutional kitchens — more focus on quality, care, and community
• Supportive colleagues and a positive working atmosphere

If you're a creative, enthusiastic kitchen leader who enjoys working with purpose and impact, we want to hear from you!