Chef

Full-Time 25959 - 31727 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Eton College

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create delicious meals and cater for special events in a vibrant private residence.
  • Company: Join the prestigious Eton College with a commitment to quality and diversity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy an 11% pension contribution, subsidised lunches, and access to sports facilities.
  • Other info: Work in a supportive environment with opportunities for personal growth and development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives through your culinary skills and creativity.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering, strong communication skills, and a passion for food.

The predicted salary is between 25959 - 31727 £ per year.

Benefits

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including an 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution), Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme, a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free or heavily discounted access to the College's sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

Role Introduction

The Chef is responsible for the planning, preparation, and presentation of high-quality meals in a private residence setting.

This includes breakfast, lunch, supper and providing hospitality for visitors, parents, and VIP guests.

You will work closely with the House and Central Catering team to ensure high standards of food quality, safety, and dietary compliance.

You will be based in a historic and well-supported private residence, equipped with a modern kitchen and backed by a dedicated Central Catering team.

The working week follows a structured school term calendar, with the advantage of having school holidays off.

The role provides stability, personal satisfaction, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on young lives through food.

Main Duties

  • Plan and prepare daily meals, snacks, and special events with creativity and nutritional balance.
  • Ensure meals are delivered on time and meet the specific dietary needs of residents, including allergies and other dietary requirements.
  • Maintain high standards of food hygiene, allergen control, and safety, compliant with relevant legislation and internal policies.
  • Manage food ordering and stock control to minimise waste and maximise use of fresh ingredients.
  • Maintain a clean, organised kitchen and complete all required food safety documentation.
  • Collaborate with the house team to support food-related activities and promote nutritional awareness among residents.
  • Provide occasional hospitality for visitors, parents, and VIP guests.
  • Attend training and remain up to date with food safety, safeguarding, and relevant hospitality qualifications.
  • Preparation and service of breakfast, lunch and supper;
  • Provide cover for other Chefs across the College as and when required;
  • To undertake any other duties as may reasonably be required of you in the post;

• All employees of Eton College are also expected to

  • Develop a good understanding of safeguarding procedures, given all positions at Eton are classed as 'regulated activity';
  • Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

This includes but is not limited to completing safeguarding training as required, complying with all safeguarding procedures and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood.

  • Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality;
  • Display a commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion.
  • Working Pattern
  • You will be working 40 hours per week 6 days out of 7, 40.6 weeks per year. (You will be paid over 12 months)
  • You will be entitled to 5.6 weeks of holiday. (You must use all your entitlement (including any lieu days) during periods of school holidays.

If a bank holiday falls during a school term period, you will be required to work this day and you will receive an additional day's holiday in lieu).

  • The Ideal Candidate
  • A reliable, flexible chef who is calm under pressure and thrives in an independent working environment;
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to follow direction while bringing your own creative flair;
  • Previous experience in private households, boutique hotels, or high-volume catering is desirable;
  • Understanding of special diets, allergen protocols, and food labelling legislation;
  • A positive attitude and collaborative spirit - you're a team player who takes pride in quality service;
  • Willingness to engage with the broader life of the residence when appropriate;
  • Level 2/3 Food Hygiene Certificate;
  • HACCP or allergen management training;
  • NVQ or equivalent in professional cookery.
  • About The College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds.

We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity.

We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online search and, where applicable, Prohibition checks.

If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form.

Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS.

The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as "spent" under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules.

It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.

Attached documents

  • Chef JD . pdf - Job Description and Person Specification
  • Safeguarding Policy September 2025. pdf - Safeguarding Policy
  • Recruitment Policy - Mar 2026. pdf - Recruitment Policy
  • #J-18808-Ljbffr

Chef employer: Eton College

Eton College is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises excellence in hospitality and events management. With a commitment to employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities while working in a prestigious environment that values high standards and teamwork. Located in the historic setting of Eton, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to a renowned institution dedicated to nurturing young minds.

Eton College

Contact Details:

Eton College Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef

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 Eton College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Eton College

Don't be shy about reaching out to Eton College 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 Chef

Meal Planning
Food Preparation
Presentation Skills
Nutritional Knowledge
Food Hygiene Standards
Allergen Management
Stock Control

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 Eton College 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 Eton College

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!