At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the school kitchen, preparing and serving nutritious meals for enthusiastic children.
- Company: A warm and supportive independent primary school in Kent.
- Benefits: Term-time hours, supportive team, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for creativity in menu planning and a positive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate community and inspire healthy eating in young minds.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, food hygiene knowledge, and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Job Description
This is a fantastic opportunity to Join a small Independent Primary Kent based School.
They are looking for a Cook/Supervisor to join the school in September 2026.
About the school: Wonderful children who are enthusiastic, polite and engaged A warm and supportive staff team who work collaboratively and prioritise the wellbeing and pastoral care of every child A welcoming and engaged family community who value partnership A school with strong values and high aspirations for every child A peaceful school site in a rural setting Core Responsibilities Kitchen Operations Lead and manage the daily operation of the school kitchen.
Prepare, cook, and serve nutritious meals in accordance with school standards and dietary requirements.
Ensure meals are prepared and served on time and to a high standard.
Maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment at all times.
Menu Planning Develop and implement varied, healthy, and cost-effective menus that meet nutritional guidelines for school-aged children.
Plan seasonal menus and special event catering as required.
Accommodate dietary, allergen, cultural, and medical requirements of pupils and staff.
Seek opportunities to introduce new dishes and improve meal offerings.
Ordering and Stock Management Order food, beverages, and kitchen supplies in line with budgetary requirements.
Monitor stock levels and maintain accurate inventory records.
Ensure efficient stock rotation and minimise food waste.
Liaise with suppliers to secure quality products and value for money.
Receive and check deliveries, ensuring products meet quality and safety standards.
Food Safety and Compliance Ensure compliance with all relevant food hygiene, health and safety, and environmental health regulations.
Maintain food safety management systems, records, and documentation.
Monitor allergen management procedures and ensure staff awareness.
Participate in inspections and audits as required.
Team Leadership Supervise and support kitchen staff where applicable.
Allocate duties and monitor performance to ensure efficient service delivery.
Foster a positive and collaborative working environment.
Budget Management Work within agreed catering budgets.
Monitor food costs and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality.
Ideal Candidate must have the following: Experience working in a commercial, educational, or large-scale catering environment Experience of menu planning and food ordering Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and allergen management Food Safety/Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)Strong organisational and time-management skills Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities Good communication and interpersonal skills Desirable Supervisory or team leadership experience Experience working within a school or educational setting Knowledge of school food standards and nutritional guidelines Relevant catering or culinary qualification Working Conditions Term-time working with additional days as required Daily hours 8am-4pm Frequent standing, lifting, and manual handling associated with kitchen duties TPBN1_UKTJ
Locations
School Cook in Kent, Longfield employer: Charalle Group
Join a nurturing and vibrant community at our Independent Primary School in Kent, where you will play a vital role in shaping the health and wellbeing of our wonderful children. As a Cook/Supervisor, you will benefit from a supportive staff team, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to create nutritious meals in a peaceful rural setting. We prioritise collaboration and value the contributions of every team member, making this an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Cook in Kent, Longfield
✨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 Charalle Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Charalle Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Charalle Group 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 School Cook in Kent, Longfield
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 Charalle Group 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 Charalle Group
✨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!
