At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals that brighten our residents' days and cater to their dietary needs.
- Company: Join a caring team at a friendly care home in Witney.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, paid holidays, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Daytime shifts only, with no late nights or unsociable hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while enjoying a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Previous chef experience and a Food Hygiene Certificate are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented and compassionate Head Chef to join our friendly care home team. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your culinary skills in a role where your work truly matters — improving the wellbeing and happiness of our residents every single day.
Location: Newland House - Witney, Oxfordshire (OX28 3JG)
Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week – includes alternate weekend working). Daytime shifts only - no unsociable hours or late nights.
Your Role:
- Prepare fresh, nutritious, and appetising meals for residents
- Cater for dietary needs (e.g. soft diets, allergies, diabetic requirements)
- Maintain high standards of hygiene and kitchen safety
- Manage stock and minimise waste
- Engage with residents to enhance their dining experience
What we’re looking for:
- Previous Chef/Head Chef experience
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)
- Understanding of dietary needs (care setting experience is a plus)
- Reliable, caring, and team-focused attitude
Why join us?
- No out-of-hours working – no late nights or unsociable hours
- Consistent daytime shifts for a great work-life balance
- Free meals on shift
- Free on-site parking
- Paid holiday + pension scheme
- Paid DBS check
- Ongoing training & development opportunities
- Supportive, friendly working environment
Enjoy a better work-life balance in a role where you can still be creative and passionate about food — without the pressure, long nights, or unpredictable hours of the hospitality industry.
Head Chef in Witney employer: Hartford Care
At Newland House, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the wellbeing of both our residents and staff. Our supportive and friendly work environment fosters creativity in the kitchen while ensuring a healthy work-life balance with consistent daytime shifts and no late nights. With ongoing training opportunities, free meals, and a commitment to employee growth, joining our team means making a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, especially those who have experience in care settings. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, bring a sample dish to an interview or a casual meet-up. This not only showcases your culinary talents but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss dietary needs! Brush up on common dietary requirements and how you can cater to them. This shows that you’re not just a great chef, but also someone who genuinely cares about the wellbeing of residents.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from passionate candidates. It’s a great way to stand out and show us you’re serious about joining our team at Newland House.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your culinary journey and how it aligns with our mission to improve the wellbeing of our residents. We want to see that you’re not just a chef, but someone who genuinely cares about the food they prepare.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to mention any previous Chef or Head Chef roles you've had, especially in care settings. We’re looking for someone who understands dietary needs, so if you’ve catered for specific diets before, don’t forget to include that!
Keep It Professional Yet Friendly:While we love a casual vibe, your application should still be professional. Use a friendly tone, but make sure to proofread for any typos or errors. We want to see your personality, but clarity and professionalism are key!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important details. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hartford Care
✨Show Your Passion for Culinary Arts
Make sure to express your love for cooking and how it impacts the residents' wellbeing. Share specific examples of dishes you've created that cater to dietary needs, as this will demonstrate your understanding and commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Your Experience with Dietary Needs
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in catering for various dietary requirements. Mention any specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will show your problem-solving skills and adaptability in a care setting.
✨Emphasise Hygiene and Safety Standards
Since maintaining high standards of hygiene is crucial, be ready to talk about your food hygiene practices. Discuss your Food Hygiene Certificate and any relevant training you've undergone, as this will reassure them of your professionalism and attention to detail.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Treat the interview like a conversation rather than a formal Q&A. Ask questions about the residents' preferences and how the kitchen team collaborates. This shows your interest in enhancing the dining experience and your willingness to be part of a team-focused environment.
