Chef De Partie in Uppingham

We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Deputy House Chef to support the Head House Chef in delivering an excellent catering service within one of Uppingham School's boarding houses. You'll be a hands‑on chef, helping to deliver fresh, nutritious and varied meals for pupils and staff while creating a warm and welcoming dining experience. You'll play an important role in the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, supporting the wider team and taking responsibility for the operation in the absence of the Head House Chef. This is an excellent opportunity for a chef looking to develop their leadership skills and take on greater responsibility within a busy boarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Support the Head House Chef with the preparation and service of breakfast, supper and special meals.
• Prepare fresh, nutritious and varied food to a consistently high standard.
• Cater safely for allergies, dietary requirements, medical needs and cultural or religious preferences.
• Maintain high standards of presentation, portion control and service.
• Support house events, themed evenings, celebrations and special functions.
• Respond positively to pupil and staff feedback to help continually improve the food offer.

Kitchen Operations

• Support the Head House Chef with the daily running of the boarding house kitchen.
• Assist with ordering, stock control, deliveries and stock rotation.
• Ensure food is stored, handled and prepared safely and correctly.
• Support food cost control and minimise waste through effective planning and production.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and report faults or maintenance requirements promptly.
• Take responsibility for the kitchen in the absence of the Head House Chef.

Team Support

• Support and mentor Kitchen Assistants and other catering colleagues.
• Assist with the induction and training of new team members.
• Lead by example and promote a positive, professional and collaborative kitchen environment.
• Support colleagues during busy periods and ensure high standards are maintained across all areas of the operation.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow all food safety legislation, HACCP procedures and Compass policies.
• Maintain excellent standards of cleanliness, hygiene and kitchen organisation.
• Complete food safety and compliance records accurately and on time.
• Follow all Uppingham School safeguarding, health & safety, security and allergen management procedures.
• Promote safe working practices and continuous improvement.

Boarding Community

• Build positive relationships with pupils, House Staff and colleagues.
• Help create a welcoming dining environment that contributes to the overall boarding experience.
• Support healthy eating, wellbeing and positive food choices.
• Represent Uppingham School and Lodestone House with professionalism and excellent customer service, The successful candidate will be required to undergo enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant pre-employment checks.

Why Join Us?

This is a great opportunity to develop your career within a unique boarding environment, working alongside an experienced Head House Chef and becoming an important part of the house community. You'll have the opportunity to develop your culinary and leadership skills, take real responsibility for the kitchen and make a positive contribution to the daily experience of pupils. If you're a passionate chef who enjoys working with people, takes pride in great food and is ready to take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you.

Qualifications

• Professional Cookery qualification such as NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent.
• Previous experience working in a professional catering environment.
• Good knowledge of food safety, allergens and HACCP procedures.
• Ability to work confidently both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Positive, professional and customer-focused approach.
• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils and staff.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience within education, boarding or contract catering.
• Experience supervising, coaching or mentoring catering colleagues.
• Food Safety Level 3 qualification.
• Understanding of nutritional requirements for children and young adults.

Key Behaviours

• Professional, approachable and reliable.
• Passionate about food quality and customer experience.
• Proactive, adaptable and willing to take responsibility.
• A positive team player who supports and develops colleagues.
• Committed to maintaining high standards at all times.
• Flexible in responding to the needs of a busy boarding house.

Benefits

• Paid overtime up to £2-3k
• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
• Working 5 out of 7 days, This is a full-time role working 5 out of 7 days, with a flexible working pattern to meet the needs of the boarding house.

The role may include early mornings, evenings, weekends and occasional special events. Safeguarding Uppingham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment.