At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and support exciting events in a vibrant school kitchen.
- Company: Join a prestigious independent school with a focus on culinary excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, paid overtime, and a fantastic work-life balance.
- Other info: Stable position with long-term career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Showcase your culinary creativity while making a positive impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef ready to step up.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 37000 £ per year.
Salary: £37,000 per annum
Location: Cobham
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm (40 hours per week)
Contract: 52 Weeks Per Year
Start Date: ASAP (subject to enhanced DBS clearance)
We are seeking a talented and passionate Sous Chef to join the catering team at a prestigious independent school in Cobham. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated chef looking to enjoy a genuine work-life balance while continuing to develop their culinary skills in a professional and supportive environment. Working primarily Monday to Friday, you will help deliver high-quality, fresh food to students, staff, and guests while supporting a varied programme of hospitality events and functions throughout the year. All additional hours worked for events and functions are paid.
The Role
- Support the management and operation of the kitchen
- Prepare and deliver high-quality meals and hospitality services
- Assist with menu planning and food innovation
- Supervise, train and motivate the kitchen team
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and health & safety compliance
- Manage food costs and assist with stock control
- Support the delivery of events, functions and special occasions
- Ensure excellent presentation and service standards at all times
About You
- Have previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef ready to step up
- Ideally have experience within education, independent schools, colleges or contract catering
- Demonstrate a progressive and stable career history
- Possess excellent knowledge of food safety, HACCP and health & safety standards
- Be experienced in working within budgets and controlling food costs
- Have strong leadership skills with the ability to train and develop team members
- Be knowledgeable about current food trends and innovative menu development
- Be organised, reliable and able to work in a fast-paced environment
- Have excellent communication and teamwork skills
What's on Offer?
- Salary of £37,000 per annum
- Monday to Friday working pattern
- 40-hour contract
- All overtime paid
- Excellent work-life balance
- Opportunity to showcase creativity through functions and events
- Fresh food operation using quality seasonal ingredients
- Supportive and professional working environment
- Long-term career development opportunities
- Stable, permanent position within a prestigious independent school
If you are a passionate chef looking for an exciting opportunity with outstanding work-life balance and the chance to work with fresh, high-quality produce, we would love to hear from you.
Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.
Sous Chef - 2026 in Surrey employer: Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub
Join our dynamic team in Sidcup, where we prioritise a supportive work culture and offer competitive salaries for our dedicated Drivers. With a focus on employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for advancement within our fast-paced environment, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - 2026 in 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 Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub
Don't be shy about reaching out to Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub 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 - 2026 in 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 Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub 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 Blue Arrow - Southampton Perm Hub
✨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!
