At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals for students while ensuring a positive dining experience.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a leader in catering with a focus on quality and care.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and access to 20+ perks including gym discounts.
- Other info: Great opportunity for growth in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives through nutritious meals and teamwork.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years of cooking experience and a passion for food and service.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 30000 £ per year.
Position Details
- Salary: £14.22 per hour
- Hours: 40 hours per week
- Shift Pattern: Monday to Friday 07:00 - 15:30
- Start Date: September 2026 (term time position)
- There is no on site parking.
Responsibilities
- Work closely with the Catering Manager to plan, prepare and deliver nutritious meals for Prep pupils.
- Prepare and present meals to agreed specifications, standards and service times.
- Support meal service, ensuring a positive and caring experience for pupils and staff.
- Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, health & safety and COSHH compliance.
- Manage ingredients and portions effectively, ensuring correct temperatures and minimal waste.
- Receive, check and store deliveries accurately, following FIFO and food safety procedures.
- Keep kitchen and service areas clean, safe and well organised at all times.
- Build positive working relationships with colleagues, school staff and the wider Sodexo team.
- Communicate professionally and courteously, reflecting Sodexo's service values.
- Participate in training, team meetings and continuous improvement activities.
- Report incidents, concerns or complaints promptly and take appropriate action.
- Support school events or special functions as required, including occasional overtime.
Qualifications
- 1-2 years of chef/cooking experience; a commis chef seeking a new challenge will be considered.
- NVQ2 chef qualification or equivalent.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with customers, clients and staff at all levels.
- Strong time management and organisational skills.
- Ability to work well under pressure.
- Computer literacy with strong literacy and numeracy skills.
- Ability to achieve and set standards and operate to performance criteria, with particular regard to hygiene.
- Positive approach to learning in role and identifying own training needs.
- Self motivated with a sense of initiative and ability to meet target deadlines.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and to implement change.
- Full understanding of allergen management.
- Previous experience of catering management and employee engagement.
- Experience of managing and developing a team in an educational establishment.
- Experience of managing budgets.
What We Offer
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it is an opportunity to be part of something that matters. You will receive access to over 20 benefits, including a competitive retirement plan, discounts at 1,900+ retail brands, gym offers and a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme. We provide support, flexibility and room to grow in a way that feels right for you.
Application Information
Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and/or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland). Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.
Chef/Cook employer: Job Search Place Limited
Sodexo is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where teamwork and communication thrive. As a Chef/Cook at Clifton College, you will enjoy a competitive salary, access to over 20 benefits including discounts and a retirement plan, and opportunities for personal growth in a nurturing educational environment. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young pupils while enjoying a fulfilling career with flexibility and support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef/Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, whether it's through social media or local events. We all know that sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that chef position.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider creating a portfolio of your best dishes or even a short video showcasing your cooking techniques. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to places you’d love to work at, like Clifton College. A friendly email expressing your interest can go a long way in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common culinary questions and scenarios. We recommend role-playing with a friend to build your confidence. And remember, applying through our website is a great way to ensure your application gets noticed!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef/Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your cooking experience and any special dishes you excel at. We want to see your passion for food and how you can bring that to our kitchen!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Chef/Cook role at Clifton College.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to align their skills with what we’re looking for!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the ingredients and dishes you might be preparing. Be ready to discuss your experience with various cuisines and how you manage food safety and allergen management. This shows your passion for cooking and your commitment to maintaining high standards.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with colleagues and school staff, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated in previous roles, especially in a busy kitchen environment. This will demonstrate that you can contribute positively to the team dynamic.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you handle pressure and manage time in a fast-paced kitchen. Think of specific scenarios where you successfully met tight deadlines or dealt with unexpected challenges. This will help you illustrate your problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and professionally. Since communication is key in this role, be prepared to discuss how you interact with pupils and staff. A positive attitude and courteous communication style will reflect well on you during the interview.
