Overview
and Responsibilities
Chef – Aurora Ryefields
Job Title: Chef
Location: Ryefields School
Salary: Actual annual salary £,. - £,., dependent on experience
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent, Term time only
Working Hours: 7.am-4pm ( working weeks per year)
About Ryefields
At Ryefield School, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and high-achieving environment for our students. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, we work collaboratively to ensure every child thrives.
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Chef to oversee the kitchen at Ryefields School. You will ensure the prompt and efficient preparation and service of all meals, within budget and to required standards, while catering to the diverse dietary needs of our young people. You will also provide guidance on food preparation, regulatory standards, and dietary considerations.
Key Duties
1. Plan menus within budget while considering dietary requirements and preferences.
2. Collaborate with the Business Manager to develop best practices and future catering strategies.
3. Ensure adherence to statutory regulations on food safety and hygiene across sites.
4. Manage kitchen documentation, accounting, and administrative procedures.
5. Create efficient staff rotas while considering team needs.
6. Induct, train, and develop new kitchen staff, providing ongoing coaching and support.
7. Maintain accurate food supply records and ensure effective stock rotation.
8. Monitor and manage food deliveries, ensuring accuracy and proper storage.
9. Maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment, planning deep cleans periodically.
10. Ensure kitchen security and safe operation of all catering equipment.
11. Organise and prepare for special functions, sometimes outside normal working hours.
12. Report any equipment defects, hazards, or irregularities.
13. Support education staff in encouraging young people to develop cooking skills.
14. Attend meetings and training courses as required.
Skills and Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
15. Experience managing a catering environment with multiple and complex dietary requirements.
16. Proven ability to plan and prepare nutritious, balanced, and varied menus.
17. Strong knowledge of health and safety legislation, including COSHH, manual handling, and food hygiene.
18. Experience in equipment maintenance and safety checks.
19. Strong literacy, numeracy, and communication skills.
20. Knowledge of kitchen equipment, stock management, and cleaning schedules.
21. Ability to prioritise tasks and work flexibly.
22. Commitment to the health, welfare, and safeguarding of children and young adults.
Requirements of the Role
23. Eligibility to work in the UK.
24. Satisfactory Enhanced DBS check with barred list clearance.
25. Ability to meet the physical demands of the role.
26. Willingness to work outside normal hours for special functions when needed.
27. Level 2 Food Hygiene Certification (Level 3 desirable).
28. Experience in cooking for - people.
29. Willingness to develop within the role.
30. Creativity in adapting meals for diverse dietary needs.
31. Team player with a motivated, positive attitude.
32. Will need to have some availability during the school holidays for deep cleaning
Benefits and Additional Information
Why Join Us?
33. Be part of a dedicated team in a rewarding school environment.
34. Work in a setting that values well-being, inclusion, and high standards.
35. Competitive salary and benefits package.
36. Opportunities for professional growth and career progression.
Be part of our successful team and also benefit from a generous package that includes:
37. Life assurance
38. Competitive Pension
39. Perkbox - offering high street discounts
40. Employee assistance programme
41. Car lease scheme
42. Fully funded training and qualifications
43. Bike to work scheme
44. Free membership to our Health cash back plan - Claim back money on services such as dental, optical, physio and many more!
Apply Now:
If you’re ready to join us on this exciting journey, we’d love to hear from you!
Start Date: May 5 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
For further information, request a job description; please email our Recruitment Partner: