At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in creating high-quality, fresh meals and seasonal menus.
- Company: Birchgrove, a vibrant community-focused organisation for people over 65.
- Benefits: No late nights, free meals on shift, healthcare cashback, and electric car scheme.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture and real opportunities for development and progression.
- Why this job: Cook with purpose in a calm kitchen environment that values quality over speed.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie with a passion for fresh food.
Looking for a role where you can still cook great food - but without the late nights, split shifts and constant pressure? At Birchgrove, we're doing things differently.
This is a Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie role within a calm, well-structured kitchen, where you can focus on quality, consistency and building relationships - rather than chasing back-to-back services.
Why this role is different- No late nights
- Consistent shifts and better work-life balance
- Cooking fresh, seasonal food from scratch
- A calm, organised kitchen environment
- Time to focus on quality - not just speed
You’ll still be hands-on, leading, cooking and maintaining high standards - but within a setting that feels more structured, supportive and purposeful.
About BirchgroveAt Birchgrove, we create vibrant communities for people over 65, where food plays a huge part in daily life. You’re not cooking for covers - you’re cooking for residents. That means building relationships, understanding preferences, and creating meals that genuinely matter. Pepperpot House in Godalming is a beautiful, modern neighbourhood set in the heart of the Surrey Hills.
What you’ll be doing- Supporting the Head Chef in delivering high-quality, fresh meals
- Preparing and cooking dishes from scratch
- Helping shape seasonal menus and specials
- Maintaining high standards in food safety and hygiene
- Supporting stock control, waste reduction and kitchen organisation
- Leading the kitchen when required
- Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie
- Passion for fresh, seasonal food
- Calm, organised and reliable under pressure
- A team player who supports others
- Someone who enjoys being part of a community
- A genuinely supportive, people-first culture
- The chance to cook with purpose and make a difference
- Real opportunity for development and progression
- A stable, well-run kitchen environment
- Free meals on shift
- Healthcare cashback scheme
- Electric car scheme
If you’re looking for a role where you can step away from the usual hospitality pressures, but still take pride in great food and a well-run kitchen, we’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to drop in for a coffee and a chat if you are interested.
Locations
Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie in Guildford, Surrey employer: Birchgrove
Birchgrove is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive, people-first culture, allowing you to thrive as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a calm and structured kitchen environment. With no late nights and a focus on work-life balance, you'll have the opportunity to create meaningful meals for residents while enjoying benefits like free meals on shift, a healthcare cashback scheme, and real opportunities for personal and professional growth in the picturesque setting of Godalming, Surrey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie in Guildford, Surrey
✨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 Birchgrove. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Birchgrove
Don't be shy about reaching out to Birchgrove 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie in Guildford, Surrey
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 Birchgrove 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 Birchgrove
✨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!
