School Head Chef: Lead Culinary Team & Seasonal Menus

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; Woldingham; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Volunteering days

Grandparent leave (3 days)

Enhanced maternity leave (24 weeks)

Training & development

Pension & life insurance

Perkbox discounts

Wellbeing hub

Free meals

Apprenticeship opportunities

Job summary

Holroyd Howe is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary team at Woldingham School. You will create exceptional menus, manage kitchen operations and deliver outstanding meals to pupils, staff and visitors.

As part of a leading UK contract caterer for independent schools, you will champion allergen controls, cost efficiency and staff development while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and safety.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef in contract catering, preferably in independent education or high-profile sectors.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Passionate about fresh ingredients and innovative menus.
• Excellent organisational, communication and financial management skills.
• Knowledge of current food trends, sustainability, and allergen control.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and presentation.
• Create innovative, seasonal menus tailored to the school’s requirements.
• Manage kitchen staff recruitment, training and development.
• Control budgets, stock, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety, and safeguarding policies.
• Collaborate with catering and school teams to deliver outstanding experiences.
• Champion allergen controls.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Menu development

Budgeting

Food safety

Allergen control

Communication

Job description

Holroyd Howe is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary team at Woldingham School. You will create exceptional menus, manage kitchen operations and deliver outstanding meals to pupils, staff and visitors.

As part of a leading UK contract caterer for independent schools, you will champion allergen controls, cost efficiency and staff development while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and safety.