At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in delivering high-quality meals and leading the kitchen team.
- Company: Join Uppingham School, part of Compass Group, a leader in the catering industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth, exclusive discounts, and wellness classes.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' dining experiences while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Professional Cookery qualification and experience in high-volume catering required.
The predicted salary is between 27900 - 34100 £ per year.
Benefits
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and My Learning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking. com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
- Working 5 out of 7 days
- Sous Chef – Hub Kitchen
- Uppingham School
Benefits
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and My Learning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking. com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
- Working 5 out of 7 days
- Sous Chef – Hub Kitchen
- Uppingham School
- Job Title
- Sous Chef – Hub Kitchen
- Reporting To
- Head Chef
- Location
- Uppingham School, Rutland
- Job Purpose
The Sous Chef plays a key role in supporting the Head Chef with the day-to-day operation of the Hub Kitchen, helping to deliver high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals to pupils, staff, and visitors across the School.
The successful candidate will assist in leading the kitchen team, ensuring food is prepared and presented to the highest standards while maintaining excellent food safety, hygiene, and operational procedures.
The role requires a proactive and hands-on chef who is passionate about fresh food, teamwork, and delivering an exceptional dining experience within a busy educational environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Food Preparation and Service
- Support the Head Chef in the preparation and delivery of breakfast, lunch, supper.
- Ensure all food is prepared, cooked, and presented to a consistently high standard.
- Assist with menu planning, recipe development, and the introduction of seasonal dishes.
- Prepare a wide variety of fresh meals, including vegetarian, vegan, allergen-aware, and special dietary options.
- Contribute to theme days, special events, formal dinners, and school functions.
- Ensure portion control and food quality standards are always maintained.
- Kitchen Leadership
- Supervise and support chefs, kitchen assistants, and other catering staff.
- Assist in organising daily kitchen operations and staff duties.
- Provide training, guidance, and mentoring to junior members of the team.
- Lead the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef.
- Foster a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment.
- Kitchen Operations
- Assist with stock control, ordering, and inventory management.
- Monitor food deliveries and ensure correct storage procedures are followed.
- Help manage food costs and minimise wastage.
- Ensure equipment is used correctly and report maintenance requirements promptly.
- Support the efficient operation of all catering services within the Hub Kitchen.
- Health, Safety and Compliance
- Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
- Ensure compliance with HACCP procedures, food safety legislation, and School policies.
- Adhere to allergen management procedures and dietary requirements.
- Complete all relevant food safety records and documentation.
- Support the School’s commitment to health, safety, safeguarding, and wellbeing.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications And Experience
- Professional Cookery qualification (NVQ Level 2/3, City & Guilds, or equivalent).
- Food Safety Level 3 Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Senior Chef de Partie, or equivalent role.
- Experience working within a high-volume catering operation.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and kitchen best practices.
Essential Skills And Attributes
- Excellent culinary skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Leadership and team development capabilities.
- Positive and flexible approach to work.
- Commitment to delivering outstanding food and service.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable
- Experience within an independent school, educational, healthcare, or contract catering environment.
- Experience of large-scale food production.
- Knowledge of sustainable food sourcing and waste reduction initiatives.
- First Aid qualification.
- Hours of Work
The role will operate on a rota basis determined by operational requirements and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional school events.
Safeguarding Statement
Uppingham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
All staff are expected to share this commitment.
The successful candidate will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant pre-employment checks.
Key Objective
To support the Head Chef in delivering an exceptional catering service that reflects Uppingham School's commitment to excellence, providing nutritious, high-quality meals for the whole school community.
About Us
As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues.
Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers.
We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members.
We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
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Sous Chef - Uppingham employer: Lodestone House
At Uppingham School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values teamwork and personal growth. As a Sous Chef, you'll benefit from a comprehensive rewards package, including career development opportunities through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes, alongside exclusive discounts and wellness initiatives. Join us in a supportive environment where your culinary skills can shine while contributing to the well-being of our school community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Uppingham
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Lodestone House. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lodestone House
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lodestone House directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef - Uppingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Lodestone House and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lodestone House
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
