At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create nutritious meals for elderly residents.
- Company: Avante Care & Support is a leading charity supporting older adults in care homes.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free DBS check, and discounts at over 800 retailers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive environment while advancing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and relevant food qualifications are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working options and employee recognition programs available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Head Chef – Make a Difference Every Day!
Location: Chaucer House, Canterbury, Kent
Organisation: Avante Care & Support
Are you passionate about creating delicious, nourishing food that truly makes people’s day? At Avante Care & Support, we believe mealtimes are about more than just food — they’re moments of comfort, connection, and joy. As a Head Chef, you’ll lead our talented kitchen team to craft meals that bring warmth and happiness to the lives of our residents.
Responsibilities
- Lead, inspire, and support a dedicated kitchen team
- Plan and prepare menus that are balanced, varied, and seasonal
- Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and safety
- Ensure every dish is served with care, creativity, and compassion
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience running a kitchen and managing a team
- A strong understanding of elderly dietary needs and food hygiene standards
- Relevant catering qualifications (Level 2 or above)
- A friendly, reliable, and flexible approach to work
What We Offer
- Competitive pay and free DBS check
- Pension contributions and free uniform
- Ongoing training & development to grow your career
- 24/7 access to virtual GP & counselling services
- Life Assurance for peace of mind
- Employee of the Month and Sparkle Awards recognition
- Exclusive discounts at over 800 retailers
Ready to Cook Up Something Amazing?
Apply today and bring your passion for food and people to Avante Care & Support.
Closing Date: Monday 9 February 2026
All roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure. We thank all applicants for their interest; shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
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Head Chef - Chaucer House employer: Avante Care & Support
Contact Detail:
Avante Care & Support Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Chaucer House
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Avante Care & Support's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting older adults will help you align your passion for food with their goals, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in catering for specific dietary needs, especially for elderly residents. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed menus that cater to various cultural and religious requirements in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively managed a kitchen team. Discuss any training or mentoring you've provided to staff, as this will demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire others.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends in nutrition and elderly care. Being knowledgeable about the latest dietary guidelines and how they apply to older adults can set you apart and show your commitment to providing the best care through food.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Chaucer House
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Head Chef at Avante Care & Support. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, especially how they cater to the dietary needs of older adults.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in running a kitchen and managing a team. Emphasise any qualifications related to food hygiene and elderly dietary needs. Make sure your CV reflects your friendly and flexible approach to work.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for making a difference through food. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to create nutritious meals and lead a team effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is crucial in a kitchen environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avante Care & Support
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and how it can positively impact the lives of residents. Share specific examples of how you've created meals that cater to dietary needs and preferences.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing kitchen staff, resolving conflicts, and fostering a collaborative environment. Highlight any successful team projects or initiatives you've led.
✨Understand Dietary Needs
Familiarise yourself with the dietary requirements of elderly individuals, especially those with dementia. Be ready to discuss how you would plan menus that are not only nutritious but also considerate of cultural and religious preferences.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have thoughtful questions ready about their kitchen operations, team dynamics, and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.