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- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals while supporting pupils' wellbeing and school events.
- Company: Join a caring and energetic team at Arc School Napton.
- Benefits: Enjoy health programmes, discounts, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives through nutritious food.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and strong knowledge of food hygiene required.
- Other info: Fixed term contract with ongoing training and development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about nutritious food and supporting pupils’ wellbeing? We’re looking for a caring, energetic, and committed School Chef/Cook to join our fantastic team!
Please note that this position is for Maternity Cover on a fixed term contract starting September 2026 until July 2027. The role is term time only, working Monday to Friday 7am to 3pm.
What you’ll be doing:
- Prepare and serve nutritious meals, drinks and snacks meeting pupils’ cultural and dietary needs
- Provide daily catering and support school events and special functions
- Maintain excellent food hygiene, cleanliness, and health & safety standards
- Manage food ordering, stock control and work within an agreed budget
- Support pupil wellbeing, learning activities, and safeguarding policies
What we’re looking for:
- A team player who will uphold the mission, values and goals of Arc School Napton
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety, and dietary requirements
- Experience working in catering or a similar role (school or education setting desirable)
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage budgets and stock
Why work for us?
- Supportive and friendly school community
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- A rewarding role where you’ll make a real impact!
We value your hard work and dedication, and we’re committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children in our care.
When you join Kedleston Group, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect a supportive environment which enables you to excel in your role and grow in your career.
You will have access to an attractive benefits package including:
- Access to health and well-being programmes, including a free and confidential 24/7 helpline and counselling service
- Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform
- Cycle to work scheme
Who are we?
Opened in 2008, Arc School Napton offer primary provision in a small school setting within the lovely Warwickshire countryside. Learning by stage, not age, our pupils are placed in classes that will allow them to effectively access learning which is delivered in the most appropriate way for their needs. Pupils of all primary ages are welcome and we have an area of the school set up for those pupils in the EYFS or KS1 age groups, this is staffed with adults who have extensive experience supporting pupils in the younger age ranges.
Arc School Napton is part of Kedleston Group. We specialise in providing specialist education and care for children aged 7-19 with a range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These include autistic spectrum condition (ASC), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and social emotional and mental health needs (SEMH).
We are committed to safeguarding and protecting children and we expect all colleagues to share this commitment. We will do everything possible to ensure that only those who are suitable to work with children are recruited to work for us. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020 and is subject to a range of vetting checks including a criminal records disclosure.
We are a disability confident committed and equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all sections of the community.
School Chef/Cook employer: Kedleston Group Ltd
Contact Detail:
Kedleston Group Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Chef/Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Arc School Napton and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the school culture and might even lead to a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a School Chef/Cook, you might be asked to demonstrate your cooking skills. Brush up on your techniques and think about how you can showcase your ability to cater to diverse dietary needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in pupils' lives.
We think you need these skills to ace School Chef/Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: Let us know why you're passionate about nutritious food and how it supports pupils' wellbeing. Share any personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to healthy eating in a school environment.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to detail your experience in catering or similar roles, especially in educational settings. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission and values, so don’t hold back on those relevant skills!
Emphasise Teamwork: As a team player, it's important to showcase your ability to work collaboratively. Mention any past experiences where you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve common goals, especially in a kitchen or school setting.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kedleston Group Ltd
✨Know Your Nutrition
Brush up on your knowledge of nutritious meals and dietary requirements. Be ready to discuss how you can cater to diverse cultural needs and dietary restrictions, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for cooking and supporting pupils' wellbeing shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to providing healthy meals and fostering a positive environment.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since teamwork is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous jobs. Highlight your ability to work harmoniously within a school setting and support school events.
✨Be Prepared for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food hygiene, health and safety standards, and budget management. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to manage stock control or maintain cleanliness, and be ready to share those experiences.