Catering Manager

We are seeking an enthusiastic and organised Catering Manager to lead our school catering provision. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with catering experience who enjoys leading a team, maintaining high standards and making a positive impact on children's daily school experience., As Catering Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day running of the school kitchen, ensuring meals are prepared and served to a high standard while maintaining excellent food safety, hygiene and customer service practices. You will manage catering operations efficiently, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, whilst creating a positive dining experience for pupils and staff. Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and work alongside your team to prepare fresh, high-quality food
• Deliver meals in line with a seasonal 3-week menu cycle, adapting menus in line with School Food Standards and allergen requirements
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness
• Take ownership of ordering food and supplies, checking deliveries and managing invoices
• Monitor food usage to minimise waste and make recommendations for improvements
• Promote school meals through events such as taster days, themed menus, and parent engagement activities
• Ensure all kitchen staff are trained, supported, and working in line with policies and procedures
• Manage staffing levels, including arranging cover where required
What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who brings both experience and enthusiasm, along with a strong commitment to delivering an excellent catering service. You will have:
• Experience in a similar catering or kitchen management role
• Proven ability to lead, support, and develop a team
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
• Excellent attention to detail and high standards of work
• A relevant Food Safety & Hygiene qualification
• Evidence of ongoing professional development, Astrea Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check. We value diversity and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure all candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities.
  
  In line with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and the statutory Code of Practice, the Trust requires all public-facing post holders to demonstrate fluent English. Within a school setting, this applies to all roles that involve direct or indirect interaction with pupils, parents, or members of the public.
  
  Excellent CPD and development opportunities
• A strong, caring and collaborative team culture
• The chance to make a real difference to children's daily experience
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• A comprehensive induction programme
• Networking opportunities across Astrea Academy Trust
If you're joining from another school, academy or trust, we recognise continuous service - which may positively impact your entitlements, including annual leave and pay.