School Kitchen Lead: Nutritious Meals & Menu Planning

the Cedars Academy; Birstall; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 17,000; Part time

Job summary

The Cedars Academy in Leicestershire is seeking an enthusiastic, experienced Cook to join our busy school catering team. You will lead the daily operation, plan nutritious meals, supervise staff and contribute to menu development while ensuring high standards of service for students and staff.

The role requires at least three years of catering experience and a recognised catering qualification with strong knowledge of food safety, allergens and legislation.

Qualifications

• At least three years' experience working and cooking within a catering environment.
• A recognised catering qualification relevant to the role, with extensive knowledge of food safety, hygiene, allergens and current catering legislation.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure in a busy catering environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the Catering Manager in the daily operation of the school kitchen and catering service.
• Lead by example, maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation and customer service.
• Plan, prepare and deliver nutritious, appealing meals that meet the needs of students, staff and visitors.
• Assist with menu planning, promotions and initiatives to increase meal uptake and customer satisfaction.
• Supervise and support catering staff, ensuring effective communication and teamwork.
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, food safety, allergen and health and safety legislation.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering food and catering supplies from approved suppliers.
• Help manage catering budgets and contribute to achieving financial and operational performance targets.
• Respond positively and professionally to customer feedback and enquiries.
• Support hospitality and special events catering across the school.
• Deputise for the Catering Manager when required, including undertaking relevant administrative duties.
• Promote healthy eating and support the implementation of the School Food Policy.

Skills

Catering experience

Food safety

Customer service

Planning & organisation

Education

Catering qualification

Job description

The Cedars Academy in Leicestershire is seeking an enthusiastic, experienced Cook to join our busy school catering team. You will lead the daily operation, plan nutritious meals, supervise staff and contribute to menu development while ensuring high standards of service for students and staff.

The role requires at least three years of catering experience and a recognised catering qualification with strong knowledge of food safety, allergens and legislation.