At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare fresh, seasonal meals and support menu planning for students.
- Company: Join a prestigious school kitchen team at Danes Hill School.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, and access to career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work Monday to Friday with flexible hours during term time.
- Why this job: Make a difference by creating delicious meals in a vibrant school environment.
- Qualifications: Previous catering experience and a passion for high-quality food.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
About the role
School Location: Danes Hill School, Leatherhead, KT22 0JG
Working Days: Monday to Friday
Shifts & Working hours: 7am-3pm (37.5 hours per week)
Working Weeks: 34.4 weeks per year (term time only)
What you’ll be doing
As a Cook, you’ll prepare fresh, seasonal meals for our independent schools. You’ll focus on quality, presentation, and portioning to meet the expectations of students and staff.
Your responsibilities include:
- Preparing and cooking meals from scratch using fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Supporting menu planning and adapting dishes to dietary requirements
- Preparing and assisting with catering events, banquets, and special functions
- Ensuring the kitchen is clean, organised, and compliant with food safety standards
- Working closely with the team to deliver consistently excellent meals
Skills & experience
- Previous catering experience, ideally in a professional or high-volume environment
- Passion for high-quality food, presentation, and attention to detail
- Experience or willingness to support catering events and special functions
- Knowledge of food hygiene and safe preparation practices
- Team player with strong organisational skills
Opportunities for professional development and culinary training
Work as part of a highly professional team in prestigious schools
Receive a free meal on shift.
Access a wide range of free qualifications and career development opportunities.
Benefit from a staff discount scheme at over 850 retailers.
Take part in monthly incentives for top-performing teams, including shopping vouchers.
If you think you’ve got what it takes, and the times above suit you, we’d love to hear from you!
A kitchen visit, trade test and interview will be required for this role.
IFG are committed to the safeguarding of children and our employees share this commitment. Successful candidates are required to undergo an enhanced DBS check, which IFG will pay for.
We are committed equal opportunities employer - if you require any assistance for the interview process, please detail within your application. All information is kept confidential and in compliance with GDPR requirements.
Commis Chef employer: Bridgwater Academy Quantock Campus
At IFG, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture where culinary passion meets professional growth. Located at the prestigious Danes Hill School in Leatherhead, our Commis Chefs enjoy a term-time schedule with generous benefits, including free meals, access to qualifications, and a staff discount scheme at over 850 retailers. Join our dedicated team and take part in exciting catering events while honing your skills in a vibrant environment focused on quality and excellence.
Contact Details:
Bridgwater Academy Quantock Campus Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commis Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research Danes Hill School and understand their ethos. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you'll be preparing fresh meals, consider doing a few trial runs of dishes you might serve. This not only boosts your confidence but also gives you great talking points during your kitchen visit.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with other chefs! Connect with professionals in the catering industry, especially those who have experience in schools. They can offer valuable insights and tips that could give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your passion for food and teamwork shine through. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for high-quality meals when you submit your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Commis Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let us see your love for high-quality food and presentation shine through. Share any experiences that highlight your culinary skills and attention to detail – we want to know what makes you tick in the kitchen!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the role. Highlight your previous catering experience and any relevant skills that align with our expectations. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read – it helps us get to know you better without sifting through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be on your way to joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater Academy Quantock Campus
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the fresh, seasonal ingredients you’ll be using. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes and how you would prepare them. This shows your passion for high-quality food and attention to detail.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
As a Commis Chef, teamwork is key. Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively in a kitchen environment before. Highlight your ability to support your colleagues during busy shifts or catering events.
✨Understand Food Safety Standards
Brush up on food hygiene practices and safety standards. Be prepared to answer questions about safe food preparation and how you ensure cleanliness in the kitchen. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Be Ready for a Trade Test
Since a trade test is part of the interview process, practice your cooking skills ahead of time. Think about how you can showcase your ability to prepare meals from scratch while focusing on presentation and portioning.
