School Chef - Specialist Education

A brand-new specialist school is opening in late 2026, and we are looking for an experienced and skilled Chef/Cook to lead the Catering Team. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a brand new provision and be part of something truly transformative.
The school will be a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious hub for children and young people aged 5-19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, and Communication and Interaction differences. With capacity for 120 students (across three sites, our vision is to create a safe, enriching and aspirational environment where every learner can thrive.
The Role
Working closely with the School Business Manager, you will lead the catering provision and produce bespoke, high quality meals and snacks for students and staff. You'll plan creative menus, champion fresh ingredients, and ensure the kitchen operates safely, efficiently and in line with all legal requirements.
Key Responsibilities Plan and develop varied, seasonal menus in consultation with the School Business Manager, using locally sourced fresh ingredients wherever possible and working within budget.
Prepare food to a high standard, following menu plans and considering dietary requirements, allergies, portion control and presentation.
Assist with ordering stock, checking deliveries and maintaining appropriate stock levels.
Manage the Catering Department in the absence of the School Business Manager, leading by example with a positive, flexible and enthusiastic working style.
Minimise food waste through effective planning and production.
Work collaboratively as a team to complete food preparation and ordering ahead of schedule.
Demonstrate safe and confident use of all kitchen equipment.
Maintain accurate records of production, consumption and wastage, producing monthly reports for the School Business Manager.
Implement and adhere to cleaning schedules to ensure the kitchen, dining and ancillary areas meet the highest hygiene standards.
Ensure the Catering Department operates efficiently within budgetary targets.
Monitor food stock levels daily and communicate any shortages promptly.
Support termly and end of year physical stock takes.
Safely operate all kitchen equipment and chemicals (training provided).
Complete all legally required food safety checks, including fridge/freezer temperatures and hot/cold holding temperatures.
Undertake duties flexibly and support wider school operations when required.

Essential Qualifications & Experience Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering
Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles
NVQ Level 2 in Cookery
Experience preparing balanced menus that promote healthy eating and variety
Ability to work to tight deadlines
Strong literacy, numeracy and communication skills (GCSE standard)
Ability to remain calm and respond quickly in an emergency
Working knowledge of health and safety legislation, including COSHH, manual handling and food hygiene procedures
Understanding of Natasha's Law

Desirable Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety in Catering
Recent experience preparing 80+ meals in a commercial kitchen

Personal Qualities Able to interact effectively with neurodivergent young people
Confident using neuro?affirmative language and following SLT guidance around food choices and diet, supporting students with ARFID and eating disorders
Enthusiastic, committed and flexible approach
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail