At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create nutritious meals for students and ensure a positive dining experience.
- Company: Join Ascend Learning Trust, dedicated to supporting schools and communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, wellbeing support, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Be part of a compassionate team that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through quality food and a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, strong culinary skills, and ability to manage a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 16.65 - 16.65 £ per hour.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced School Chef Manager to lead our kitchen team and provide high-quality, nutritious meals for our pupils each day. The successful candidate will be passionate about food, committed to maintaining high standards, and dedicated to creating a positive dining experience for children and staff alike.
As a successful applicant, you will be organised, reliable and able to manage a busy kitchen environment, ensuring compliance with food safety requirements while delivering excellent customer service. Experience of catering for special dietary requirements and allergies, alongside strong culinary skills, will be essential. As a leader, you will be confident in supervising and supporting kitchen staff, managing stock and budgets, and working collaboratively with school colleagues to deliver an efficient and welcoming catering service.
We value our people and offer a comprehensive range of benefits to support your health, wellbeing and career development, including:
- Free annual flu vaccines
- 24/7 counselling helpline
- 24/7 GP anytime
- Access to the Sonder wellbeing app, offering 24/7 mental health, medical and personal safety support
- Annual Wellbeing Day*
- Flexible working solutions
- Uniform provided
- Discounts and cashback at hundreds of retailers
- Supportive performance development
- Internal progression pathways
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Supportive and inclusive school environment
*Please note some allowances are only applicable on completion of a successful probation.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. If you need adjustments to support your application, please contact the Recruitment Team on 01793 781485 or recruitment@ascendlearningtrust.org.uk
Ascend Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Please note that this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, which means that you are required to disclose any criminal convictions, cautions, warnings, or reprimands, even if they would normally be considered "spent” and a DBS check will be carried out before any employment commences.
In line with KCSIE 2025 and safer recruitment practices, the school will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates. The online search is part of our safeguarding checks and will seek publicly available information on candidates' suitability to work with children. Shortlisted candidates will be provided with further guidance and will be asked to clarify their online presence.
References will be obtained before interview at shortlisting stage and may be used in the interview process. If previous employment has included working with children, then at least one referee must be from this employment regardless of whether this is the current or most recent employment. Any gaps in employment must be detailed and an explanation provided in the relevant section.
Chef Manager in Swindon employer: Lawn Manor Academy
Lawn Manor Academy in Swindon is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong emphasis on employee development and career progression, the academy offers a range of wellness benefits that cater to mental, physical, and financial health. Joining our Student Services team means being part of a holistic approach to education, where your contributions truly make a difference in students' lives.
