At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the kitchen team while delivering delicious meals at a prestigious school.
- Company: Join Chartwells, part of Compass Group, a leader in catering for Independent Schools.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, gym membership, discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a dynamic team and excellent development programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through outstanding food and service.
- Qualifications: Culinary skills, leadership experience, and a passion for food are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fantastic opportunity at a prestigious Independent School. Chartwells, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, is the leading provider of catering and support services to Independent Schools in the UK. You will be part of a team that supports high quality education at this school by providing outstanding food and service to the pupils and staff. It all starts with enjoyment—great tasting, healthy food that pupils look forward to and really enjoy.
The Relief Head Chef will play a key role in supporting and training the catering team across Tonbridge School’s main catering outlet and boarding houses. This role involves overseeing daily kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety are maintained at all times. The Relief Head Chef will provide hands-on leadership, mentoring and developing kitchen staff to enhance their skills and performance. Responsibilities include menu execution, stock control, allergen management, and ensuring all catering is delivered in line with school and company standards. The role also requires flexibility to provide cover and continuity during periods of staff absence, maintaining a consistent and professional standard of service across all areas of the school.
Who You Are
- Excellent and Innovative culinary and presentation skills
- Excellent Communication and Interpersonal skills
- Energetic with a passion to do a great job
- Able to manage staff in a calm, inspirational manner
- A forward-thinker who can prevent wastage
- Demonstrates a passion for food
- Team Player
- Excellent organisation skills
- Numerate and computer literate with an understanding of financial drivers
- A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing
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.
Benefits
- Free meals on duty
- Local gym membership
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning 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
- Unwind with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
Working 5 out of 7 days.
Relief Head Chef - Tonbridge employer: Lodestone House
At Lodestone House, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the growth and well-being of our team. As a Relief Head Chef in the vibrant setting of Tonbridge School, you will enjoy competitive pay, free meals on duty, and access to extensive learning and development opportunities, all while contributing to a positive work culture that prioritises teamwork and innovation. With unique benefits like discounts on travel and groceries, as well as wellness classes, we ensure our employees feel valued and supported both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Head Chef - Tonbridge
✨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 Relief Head Chef - Tonbridge
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!
