Our client is a prestigious school near Winchester, Hampshire, with an exceptional catering operation. With a dedicated team of professional staff across the catering operation serving pupils and staff —the school prides itself on producing fresh, nutritious, high-quality food every day. As well as the day to day catering, they also cater for a variety of events and functions. They are currently looking to recruit a skilled and passionate lead Chef to join their team.
The Role
You will play a key role in preparing daily meals for pupils and staff -
producing everything fresh on site—hot dishes, salads, pastry items, cakes, desserts, and traybakes. You will also assist with hospitality and event catering. As the lead Chef you will be expected to run a shift independently, catering for around 80 per day, ensuring high standards across all areas of the kitchen. The role also involves supporting school events such as functions, afternoon teas, receptions, and special occasions. You'll work closely with the Head Chef and another Chef on a rotating shift pattern.
Hours of work
Contract: Permanent - 52 week contract
Hours: 40 hours per week
Shift Times: An 8 hour shift between the hours of 6:30am and 7:30pm. Straight shifts. No Late Nights!
Pay & Benefits
This Chef position offers a good hourly rate, great work life balance + excellent benefits including:
- Free use of onsite gym
- Free uniform
- Free parking
- Meal provided on duty
- Pension scheme
- Training & development opportunities
- Discounts on shopping, cinema tickets, clothing, technology, utilities, family activities, and holidays
- Flexible working options
- Additional leave purchase
- Recognition and awards programmes
- Employee assistance programme
- Health & wellbeing support
- Health cash plan
- Life assurance
Person Specification: Essential:
- Strong High level cooking ability with experience across all kitchen sections, including pastry
- Confident producing a high standard of fresh food at volume
- Ability to run a kitchen shift independently
- Experience working within an independent school environment ideally
- Experience catering for events and functions
- Solid knowledge of food hygiene, due diligence, and compliance standards
- Reliable, organised, and comfortable working in a busy, varied environment
*We are also looking for a chef on a term time contract, if you are looking for a term time only chef role, then please do get in touch also*
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