At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare high-quality meals and oversee kitchen operations in a supportive care environment.
- Company: Augustinian Care, a trusted organisation with over 150 years of experience in elderly care.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free meals, uniform, transport, and extensive staff perks.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, mentorship opportunities, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real difference in residents' lives through quality dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, relevant qualifications, and a current Food Hygiene Certificate Level 3.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Company Augustinian Care is a well-established organisation with a proud heritage of delivering high-quality care, guided by traditional principles that have been upheld by the Augustinian Sisters since 1868. Today, we combine these values with modern facilities to provide outstanding care within a supportive and forward-thinking environment. Located between Burgess Hill and Haywards Heath, our services are set within 250 acres of beautiful gardens and farmland, offering a peaceful and therapeutic setting for both residents and staff.
We offer a wide range of services and facilities on site, including two purpose-built care homes with nursing, specialising in dementia care for individuals aged 60 and over with complex needs. Our large, committed team delivers person‑centred care in a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment, ensuring each individual is supported to live with dignity, comfort, and wellbeing. In addition, we offer independent living for those over the age of 60 in our retirement village, alongside our assisted living development, creating a diverse and supportive community tailored to different levels of need.
We are committed to developing talent at every level, which is why we actively support employee apprenticeships across a range of disciplines. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to upskill, our apprenticeship pathways offer the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications while working, earning, and learning on the job. We provide ongoing mentorship and a supportive environment that helps you build confidence, grow professionally, and take the next step in your career with us.
Benefits
- Competitive remuneration
- Job security – Augustinian Care have been caring for the elderly for over 150 years
- Annual pay reviews
- Free uniform provided – For all care and ancillary positions
- Free staff transport – Mini bus pickups on specified routes
- Free on‑site secure parking
- DBS checks – Company funded checks
- Free meal – One free meal provided when on duty (hot for day shifts and sandwiches on nights)
- Life Cover – based on a multiple of the last 12 months earnings at date of death
- Employee Assistance Programme including free, confidential access to advice line and counselling
- Access to Blue Light Card – extensive range of discounts on many high street & online brands/shops
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee Referral Scheme – with generous rewards (T&C's apply)
- Long service awards – Financial recognition of long service and commitment
- Paid sick leave (T&C's apply)
- Other staff benefits include: Staff massage chair, Company Summer Fete and Christmas Party, staff prize draws, various staff well‑being talks
The Role
As a Multisite Chef, you will play a key role in supporting the day‑to‑day operations of our catering services across St George’s Park. This is a unique opportunity to work across a single, beautifully located site, covering four different kitchens within our Retirement Village, Care Homes, and Assisted Living Development – offering excellent variety in your role. You will be responsible for preparing high‑quality meals for our residents at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring exceptional standards of food, service, hygiene, and cleanliness are consistently maintained.
When leading a shift as Chef, you will take ownership of the kitchen function, including overseeing the catering team. Strong interpersonal, leadership, and organisational skills are therefore essential for success in this role. In addition, there will be occasions where you will support the wider team by working as a Kitchen Assistant, with no reduction in pay. During these shifts, you will assist the Chef on duty with food preparation, service, and maintaining a clean and safe kitchen environment. This flexible, team‑focused approach makes you an integral part of delivering a high‑quality dining experience for our residents.
Working Hours
- Full‑time position (40 hours per week)
- 4 × 10‑hour shifts
- Shifts are rostered and include alternate weekend working, so flexibility to work any day of the week is essential
- Earliest start time: 07:00
- Latest finish time: 21:00
Requirements
The successful candidate will hold, or be working towards, City and Guilds 706 1 & 2 qualifications or equivalent, relevant qualifications, and current Food Hygiene Certificate Level 3. The successful candidate will also have at least 2 years’ experience in catering, or a similar role, and be able to work well under pressure. All posts are subject to a clear enhanced criminal record check and satisfactory references.
Although it is no longer a legal requirement for staff working within CQC regulated Care Homes for Older Adult Care in England to be fully COVID‑19 vaccinated, in the best interests of our staff and residents, we have decided to keep it a mandatory requirement to work for our organisation. Therefore, we will need proof of your COVID Vaccination pass. This role does not meet the requirements of Sponsorship. You must have current valid right to work in the UK.
Chef and Kitchen Assistant employer: ANH
St George’s Park Retirement Village offers a nurturing and supportive environment for Domiciliary Care Workers, where your contributions directly enhance the quality of life for our residents. With over 150 years of experience in elderly care, we provide competitive remuneration, job security, and a range of benefits including free meals, transport, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme. Our vibrant work culture fosters personal growth and community spirit, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef and Kitchen Assistant
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like ANH. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ANH
Don't be shy about reaching out to ANH directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about ANH and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at ANH
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
