Chef

Windsor Full-Time No home office possible
Eton College

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us as a Chef, creating delicious meals for a vibrant community of teenage boys.
  • Company: Eton College is a prestigious institution dedicated to nurturing young minds and promoting diversity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy an 11% pension contribution, subsidised lunches, and access to sports facilities.
  • Other info: Work 40 hours a week with school holidays off, ensuring a great work-life balance.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through food in a supportive and creative environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering, strong communication skills, and a Level 2/3 Food Hygiene Certificate required.

We are seeking a dedicated and talented Chef to join our team in a prestigious residential setting, providing exceptional meals to a community of 55+ teenage boys. This is a unique opportunity for a culinary professional who values consistency, creativity, and purpose in their work. You’ll play a central role in supporting the wellbeing and nutrition of our students by delivering delicious, nutritionally balanced meals in a structured yet dynamic environment.

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.

This role is Term Time Only and a Maternity Cover Contract.

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). This a maternity cover, fixed term contract.

Qualifications

  • 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;
  • HACCP or allergen management training;
  • NVQ or equivalent in professional cookery.

For a full list of duties and responsibilities, please see the job description.

Applications close on 27th April 2026.

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Chef employer: Eton College

Eton College is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for chefs to thrive in a prestigious residential setting dedicated to nurturing young lives through food. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, the role provides stability, generous benefits including an 11% pension contribution, and access to excellent sports and leisure facilities, all within a supportive and collaborative work culture that values creativity and personal growth.
Eton College

Contact Detail:

Eton College Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs and preferences of the teenage boys you'll be cooking for. Understanding their tastes and nutritional requirements will help you create meals that resonate with them, showcasing your ability to cater to a diverse audience.

✨Tip Number 2

Highlight any previous experience in private households or high-volume catering during your interactions. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the unique challenges of a residential setting and reassure us of your adaptability in a dynamic kitchen environment.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your creativity by preparing a few sample dishes that reflect your culinary style. If you get the chance to meet us before the interview, bringing along a portfolio of your work or even a tasting menu can leave a lasting impression.

✨Tip Number 4

Engage with our community by researching Eton College's values and initiatives. Demonstrating your alignment with our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children will show us that you're not just a chef, but a team player who cares about the broader impact of your role.

We think you need these skills to ace Chef

Culinary Skills
Meal Planning
Nutritional Knowledge
Food Safety Compliance
Allergen Management
Creativity in Cooking
Time Management
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Stock Control
Food Hygiene Certification (Level 2/3)
HACCP Training
Adaptability
Attention to Detail

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant culinary experience, especially in private households or high-volume catering. Emphasise your skills in meal planning, food hygiene, and dietary compliance.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and your commitment to providing nutritious meals. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your creativity and ability to work under pressure.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Include any relevant certifications such as Level 2/3 Food Hygiene Certificate or HACCP training. This will show your understanding of food safety and allergen management, which is crucial for the role.

Showcase Your Team Spirit: In your application, mention your collaborative spirit and willingness to engage with the broader life of the residence. This aligns with the college's values and shows you are a team player.

How to prepare for a job interview at Eton College

✨Showcase Your Culinary Creativity

During the interview, be prepared to discuss your creative approach to meal planning and preparation. Share examples of how you've incorporated nutritional balance into your dishes while catering to specific dietary needs.

✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Food Safety

Highlight your understanding of food hygiene standards and allergen protocols. Be ready to discuss your experience with maintaining high standards of food safety and any relevant certifications you hold.

✨Emphasise Team Collaboration

Since the role involves working closely with a house team, express your ability to collaborate effectively. Share instances where you've worked as part of a team to enhance the dining experience or support food-related activities.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess how you handle pressure and unexpected situations in the kitchen. Think of examples where you've successfully managed challenges, such as dietary restrictions or last-minute changes to meal plans.

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