At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in running a busy kitchen and provide high-quality food service.
- Company: Join Chulmleigh Academy Trust's friendly and dedicated catering team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension scheme, and 50% off childcare fees.
- Other info: Flexible hours available and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives through delicious meals and exceptional service.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and relevant qualifications are essential.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 30700 £ per year.
Chulmleigh Academy Trust is seeking to appoint a reliable and hardworking individual to assist the Academy Kitchen Manager with the day-to-day running of the kitchen and food service. We are pleased to offer a permanent position, working 37 hours per week across 39 weeks per annum (term time, including Non-Pupil Days). The preferred working pattern is Monday to Friday, 7.00 am - 3.00 pm (including a 30-minute unpaid break). However, we are open to discussing some flexibility around these hours at interview to support the right candidate.
As an Assistant Kitchen Manager, you will play a crucial role in preparing the main meal of the day and providing a high-quality food service for all the schools in the Trust and to deputise in the Kitchen Manager's absence. In addition, you will be responsible for the completion of relevant paperwork, such as ordering stock, and supporting the Kitchen Manager in the ongoing training and supervision of staff in all aspects of catering and in line with current legislation.
You will join a hardworking, friendly, and highly valued catering team who are committed to our ambition to offer the best provision to our pupils across all areas of their education. We welcome applications from candidates with an established background in catering. Applicants should have experience in preparing and serving food in a busy commercial kitchen environment. A City and Guilds 706 Part 1 and Part 2 qualification or an NVQ equivalent is essential.
The ideal candidate will be a motivated and reliable team player with a can-do attitude and a genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer service. You will be joining a fast-paced, vibrant department where enthusiasm, flexibility, and a commitment to high standards are highly valued.
Employment benefits include eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme. In addition, employees of the Trust are entitled to 50% off childcare fees at our out of school clubs for children of compulsory school age.
We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and access for all, irrespective of age, background, race, gender, religion, ability, disability, or sexuality. We welcome applications for employment from the whole community. As employers, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and in that regard, we have appropriate policies and procedures. All staff undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and interviews will include questions about safeguarding children.
Closing date: 10 am on Wednesday, 3 June 2026
Interview date: Thursday, 11 June 2026 (kitchen tasks prior to interview)
Assistant Kitchen Manager in Exeter employer: Chulmleigh Academy Trust
Contact Detail:
Chulmleigh Academy Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Kitchen Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen team before your interview! If you can, pop by the college and chat with staff. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you understand their vibe.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for practical tasks during the interview. Brush up on your cooking skills and be ready to showcase your ability to handle a busy kitchen environment. We want to see that can-do attitude in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed food service or trained staff in the past. We love hearing about your passion for delivering exceptional customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our community and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Kitchen Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking and food service shine through! We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about providing high-quality meals and service.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous experience in catering or working in a busy kitchen. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills and qualifications!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to read and understand. This will help us get a good sense of who you are and what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re following our instructions, which is always a good sign!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chulmleigh Academy Trust
✨Know Your Kitchen Basics
Brush up on your culinary skills and kitchen management knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience in preparing and serving food, as well as any relevant qualifications like City and Guilds or NVQ. This will show that you’re not just a team player but also someone who knows their way around a busy kitchen.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well with others. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues in the past, especially in training or supervising staff. The interviewers will be looking for someone who can fit into their friendly and hardworking team, so let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Be Ready for Practical Tasks
Since there are kitchen tasks prior to the interview, practice some basic cooking techniques and food preparation methods. This will help you feel more confident and demonstrate your hands-on skills. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase your passion for delivering high-quality food service.
✨Understand the Importance of Safeguarding
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding policies and why they matter in a school environment. Be prepared to discuss how you would contribute to creating a safe and supportive atmosphere for students. This shows that you take your responsibilities seriously and are committed to the welfare of children.