Sous Chef in Canford Magna)

Ad Warrior Ltd; Merley; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Canford School is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to support the Executive Head Chef in delivering high-quality catering for pupils, staff and visitors. The role involves managing all aspects of the catering operation, ensuring menus, presentation and service meet the institution’s standards across breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The successful candidate will lead a team in a busy kitchen, with rota planning, stock control and budget oversight, while ensuring strict compliance with food safety and

Qualifications

• Experience in large-scale catering.
• Proven leadership and organisational skills.
• Ability to manage rotas and budgets.
• Commitment to food safety and allergen procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Head Chef in managing all catering operations.
• Ensure high standards of food quality, presentation and service.
• Lead and develop the sous team, manage rotas and stock.
• Oversee budgets and compliance with safety procedures.
• Deliver meals for up to 1,000 daily during term time and support events.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budgeting

Stock control

Food safety

Allergen procedures

Menu planning

Education

Professional cooking qualification

Job description

Sous Chef

Location: Canford, Dorset

Salary: £36,050 per annum

Vacancy Type: Permanent

Working Hours : The catering department operates 7 days per week between 0700hrs and 2030hrs. Actual hours of work will be discussed at interview and worked 5 days out of 7 in accordance with the Chef's rota

Canford is a leading HMC co-educational boarding and day school with 663 pupils aged 13-18, including 281 in the Sixth Form. Set within one of the most beautiful school environments in the country, Canford offers a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring community for both students and staff. Working here means joining a supportive and professional team in a dynamic, fulfilling setting where excellence and creativity are encouraged

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sous Chef to join our outstanding internal catering team. You will assist the Executive Head Chef in managing all aspects of the catering operation, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, and service for pupils, staff, and visitors. The kitchens cater for up to 1,000 meals daily during term time, providing breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as catering for internal and external events, weddings, and lettings throughout the year. The catering department operates 7 days per week between 0700hrs and 2030hrs. Actual hours of work will be discussed at interview and worked 5 days out of 7 in accordance with the Chef's rota.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in large-scale, high-quality catering, with strong leadership and organisational skills. You will work collaboratively with the Executive Head Chef and fellow Sous Chefs to motivate and develop your team, manage rotas, maintain budgets and stock control, and ensure compliance with food safety and allergen procedures. Creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for delivering exceptional food will be key to your success in this role.

Closing Date: Sunday 8th November 2026

Canford School is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our Community and encourages applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Canford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo child protection screening.