At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations across care homes, creating delicious meals that bring joy.
- Company: Join Care South, a top-rated not-for-profit charity focused on quality care.
- Benefits: Up to £16/hour, flexible hours, free lunch, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values kindness, respect, and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while enjoying sociable working hours.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Food Production/Hygiene and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Location: Peripatetic role across care homes in Dorset (Bournemouth, Dorchester, Ferndown, Gillingham, Poole, Ringwood, Southbourne, Weymouth)
Pay: Up to £16 per hour + 32p per business mile + enhanced bank holiday pay + options for extra shifts + free light lunch on shift
Hours: 40 hours over 4 days, to include 2 weekends per month
Shifts: 7:30 AM to 6 PM
Essential Requirement: Must hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a reliable vehicle for business use. It is a requirement of the role that the successful candidate maintains appropriate business use car insurance.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head Chef to join the team. This role will be providing cover across all of our Dorset Homes. Are you currently working long hours in a pub or restaurant? Working in our care home kitchen will provide you with more sociable hours and your shifts will be mostly during the day and on every other weekend. Are you also someone who genuinely wants to make a positive difference in people’s lives? You don’t need previous experience working in a care home. What matters most are your skills, kindness, understanding, and a commitment to delivering our ethos of Food, Fun & Friendship.
We provide a comprehensive induction and training programme, so you’ll be fully supported every step of the way. We’re looking for someone with a Certificate in NVQ Level 2 Food Production/Hygiene (maybe looking to undertake Level 3). You will need an understanding of health and safety and other current relevant legislation.
If this sounds like you, come and be part of a team that truly makes a difference!
Make a Real Difference Every Day
Everyone working at Care South is dedicated to providing the best quality care to all our residents. We all share and work hard to uphold our HEART values, ensuring that throughout the delivery of care, we consistently demonstrate Honesty, Excellence, Approach, Respect and Teamwork.
Our care homes don’t just provide companionship and social interaction, they provide a happy and fulfilling lifestyle for residents, delivering Food, Fun and Friendship, as well as compassionate person-centred care. Our fantastic facilities, exciting social activities and exceptional care teams all help to enhance the health and happiness of our residents. No two residents are the same and we love to learn about their amazing life stories, hobbies and interests. This allows us to tailor our care and activities to suit their likes and favourite pastimes, as well as to really get to know them and build strong relationships. Food, Fun and Friendship is at the HEART of everything we do!
Why You’ll Love Working with Us:
- Ongoing training and development.
- Receiving support from a friendly, experienced team and colleagues.
- Delivering person-centred care that truly makes a difference.
- Encouraging residents to stay independent and active.
- Assisting with personal care and mobility needs.
- Building genuine friendships with residents.
- Creating a positive, team-focused atmosphere within the home.
Your Rewards And Benefits:
At Care South, we really value all our staff, whatever the role. We offer a stimulating and incredibly rewarding career. We celebrate all our staff every year through the Care South Stars Awards. As a not-for-profit charity, our focus isn’t on our owners or shareholders; it is very firmly on those in our care and those that care for them. We are constantly looking at ways to improve the reward and recognition of all our amazing people within the Care South Team.
Our current benefits package includes:
- Online/retail discounts – Blue Light Card.
- Paid induction and training.
- Employee referral bonus scheme.
- Free DBS check.
- Contributory pension scheme.
- Life insurance.
- Staff association.
- Local staff reward programme.
- Onsite learning and development team.
- Career progression.
- Competitive pay rates.
- Flexible working hours.
- Employee assistance and wellbeing programmes.
What You Need To Know:
You must be 18 years or older. We are unable to offer Visa Sponsorship.
Ready to Join Us? If you’re a kind, caring chef, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of something truly special!
About Us: PEOPLE | PASSION | PURPOSE Care South are one of the top 20 rated Care Home Groups in the UK based on published reviews from residents and their family and friends at carehome.co.uk. As a not-for-profit charity, our HEART values are key to us providing outstanding care.
For more information about us, our values and benefits, please visit our website: http://www.care-south.co.uk/about-us. If you have any questions, please contact the recruitment team on 01202 712448.
Roaming - Head Chef - Dorset in Bournemouth employer: Care South
Care South is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of both its residents and staff. With a strong focus on employee growth, flexible hours, and a supportive work culture, you will find yourself in a nurturing environment where your contributions are valued. Enjoy competitive pay, paid training, and a contributory pension scheme while being part of a caring community at St Ives House in Ringwood.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Roaming - Head Chef - Dorset in Bournemouth
✨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 Care South. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Care South
Don't be shy about reaching out to Care South 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 Roaming - Head Chef - Dorset in Bournemouth
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 Care South 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 Care South
✨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!
