At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals for students and ensure a clean, welcoming kitchen.
- Company: Join a people-first catering company dedicated to enriching lives through food.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, flexible hours, paid volunteering, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with support for all applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while growing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, customer service skills, and previous catering experience.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
We’re a specialist catering company dedicated to providing delicious, healthy and exciting food for Independent Schools. We know the crucial role that food can play on a pupil’s ability to learn, develop and ultimately flourish. Food isn’t simply fuel, it’s critical to creating happy, healthy and inquisitive young minds. Lexington is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues. Candidates that are shortlisted for this role will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List.
What you’ll be doing:
- As a Chef you will have plenty of responsibility and opportunity to grow in your role, becoming a critical member of our team, looking after our Boarders in this term time position.
- Ensure the food is to the highest standard.
- Ensure the kitchen and service area are always clean, well-presented, and well-stocked.
- Keep up to date with menus and what food is on offer.
- Offer a warm and friendly service.
- Ensure COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety are followed.
Working Pattern: Based on 40 hours per week, 5 days including Weekends.
What can you bring?
- Possess a passion for food.
- Focused on the front line.
- Genuine interest in customer service excellence.
- Team player.
- Previous catering experience.
Brilliant Work Deserves Brilliant Perks! At Elior, we believe that when you love where you work, it shows. That’s why we make sure our team feels appreciated, supported, and set up for success! Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Free, tasty meals - Enjoy tasty, nutritious food on us while you work!
- Flexible working - including part time roles, because life doesn’t run on a 9-5 schedule.
- Plenty of Time to Unwind - Flexibility around family life with holidays that match the school calendar.
- Leave for life’s important moments - whether family, personal or unexpected.
- Give back time - paid volunteering days for the causes you care about.
- Room to grow - career development and learning opportunities for all stages of your career.
- Wellbeing first - mental health support and wellbeing perks.
- Financial security - pension schemes and life assurance.
- Exclusive discounts - save on entertainment, leisure, and even travel!
One small thing - we welcome you to apply using the name you feel most comfortable with! No need for legal names at this stage.
Why You’ll Love Working Here:
We’re a people-first business with over 10,000 colleagues across the UK, serving everything from stadiums to hospitals, schools to workplaces. Our mission? To enrich lives everywhere, every day. And here’s the best part - 87% of our team say they’re proud to work here! Why? Because we create a place where you’re listened to, trusted, supported, and valued.
Not sure you match every single requirement? Apply anyway! Research shows that many people - especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds - hold back unless they meet 100% of the criteria. But we hire for potential, not just experience. If you’re passionate and ready to grow, we want to hear from you!
We Celebrate You! At Elior, diversity and inclusion aren’t just policies, they’re who we are. We know that different perspectives make us stronger, and we’re dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.
Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Just let us know - we’re happy to help!
Ready to join us? Hit ‘Apply Now’ and let’s chat!
Locations
Chef - Ashford, Kent employer: Lexington-Catering
Elior is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its team members, offering a supportive work culture where every voice is valued. Located in Ashford, Kent, our Chef role provides not only competitive benefits like flexible working hours and paid volunteering days but also opportunities for career development in a vibrant environment dedicated to enriching the lives of young learners. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Elior ensures that all employees feel empowered and appreciated, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - Ashford, Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Lexington. Understand their mission and values, especially their focus on providing healthy food for schools. This will help you connect with them during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for food! When you're talking about your experience, make sure to highlight your love for cooking and how it impacts others. Share stories that showcase your creativity and dedication in the kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss teamwork! As a chef, you'll be part of a larger team, so think of examples where you've worked well with others. Emphasise your ability to collaborate and support your colleagues in creating a fantastic dining experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with your potential future team!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef - Ashford, Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your experiences and what excites you about cooking. We want to see that you’re not just a chef, but someone who truly cares about the meals you create.
Highlight Your Customer Service Skills:Since we’re all about providing excellent service, make sure to mention any previous roles where you’ve interacted with customers. We love team players who can offer a warm and friendly service, so don’t hold back!
Be Yourself:We want to get to know the real you! Use the name you feel most comfortable with when applying. Authenticity is key, and we appreciate candidates who are genuine in their applications.
Apply Through Our Website:Make it easy for us to find your application by applying directly through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your details go straight to the right place. Plus, we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lexington-Catering
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of food and dietary requirements that are important for independent schools. Be ready to discuss how you can create healthy, exciting meals that cater to various tastes and needs.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your love for cooking shine through! Share stories about your culinary journey and what inspires you in the kitchen. This role is all about creating a positive dining experience, so enthusiasm is key.
✨Team Spirit Matters
As a chef, you'll be part of a team. Prepare to talk about your experiences working collaboratively in a kitchen environment. Highlight how you support your colleagues and contribute to a friendly atmosphere.
✨Safety First!
Brush up on your knowledge of COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure these standards are met in your kitchen practices, as this is crucial for the role.
