Head of Kitchen - Primary School

1 - 2 Month Contract With A Local Authority

To lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the school kitchen, ensuring the delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff in a safe, efficient and compliant environment.

The postholder will be responsible for food preparation, menu delivery, stock control, kitchen supervision and compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations. The role requires strong catering experience, organisational skills and the ability to lead a small catering team while maintaining high standards of food quality and service.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook nutritious meals for pupils and staff.
  
  


• Lead the daily operation of the school kitchen.
  
  


• Supervise, support and coordinate catering staff.
  
  


• Ensure meals are prepared and served to agreed standards and timescales.
  
  


• Maintain compliance with food safety, health and hygiene regulations.
  
  


• Monitor food quality, portion control and presentation.
  
  


• Manage stock levels and place food orders when required.
  
  


• Receive, check and store deliveries appropriately.
  
  


• Ensure effective stock rotation and minimise food waste.
  
  


• Maintain accurate food and temperature records.
  
  


• Ensure allergen management procedures are followed.
  
  


• Maintain a clean, safe and organised kitchen environment.
  
  


• Operate kitchen equipment safely and appropriately.
  
  


• Carry out cleaning duties and ensure kitchen hygiene standards are maintained.
  
  


• Support school events and catering requirements where required.
  
  


• Report maintenance issues and equipment faults promptly.
  
  


• Follow all safeguarding, health and safety and school policies.
  
  

Requirements

Essential

• Previous experience as a Chef, Cook or Head of Kitchen.
  
  


• Experience working within catering, education, hospitality or contract catering environments.
  
  


• Food Safety Certificate.
  
  


• Strong knowledge of food hygiene and food safety regulations.
  
  


• Experience supervising or leading kitchen staff.
  
  


• Experience with stock control and food ordering.
  
  


• Good organisational and time management skills.
  
  


• Ability to work independently and manage kitchen operations.
  
  


• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  
  


• Enhanced DBS clearance.
  
  

Desirable

• Experience working within a school catering environment.
  
  


• Level 2 or Level 3 Food Hygiene Qualification.
  
  


• Knowledge of allergen management requirements.
  
  


• Experience producing large volumes of meals.
  
  


• Health and Safety training.
  
  

Additional Information

• Location: Peafield Lane Academy, Mansfield, NG19 9PB
  
  


• Hours Per Week: 30 Hours
  
  


• Payment Frequency: Bi-Weekly Payments