At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to create healthy, delicious meals for our school community.
- Company: Join the friendly and supportive team at Frome College.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, cycle-to-work, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a fulfilling role in a welcoming school environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' wellbeing through nutritious food.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 16.08 - 16.08 £ per hour.
Employer: Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership
Location: Radstock, Somerset
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: Grade 5, Scale point 11 - 17
Posted: 16th June 2026
Expires: 3rd July 2026 11:59 PM
Start Date: 1st September 2026
Job ID: 1560496
Role: Lead Cook
Location: Frome College
Start Date: 1st of September
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 3pm, term time plus 5 inset days.
Salary: Grade 5, Scale point 11 - 17, £14.59 - £16.08 per hour, Full time equivalent £28,142 - £31,022 (Actual annual salary £24,178 - £26,653)
About Frome College: Nestled within the town of Frome. The College is a thriving and inclusive community where every child is valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. We are committed to providing a stimulating learning environment, fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring the wellbeing of our students. We pride ourselves on our friendly and supportive team, and we are looking for a talented individual to join us in creating a positive and nurturing atmosphere.
The Role: As our Lead Cook, you will play a pivotal role in managing the daily catering operations, ensuring the smooth running of the kitchen and delivering high-quality, healthy meals that meet the diverse needs of our school community. You will lead a team of 5 catering staff, overseeing all aspects of food preparation, service and hygiene. Your expertise will contribute to the development of menus that are not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced, adhering to the Food for Life Partnership Scheme.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operational Management: Take charge of the daily catering service, ensuring efficient and effective operations.
- Team Leadership: Supervise and motivate catering staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Food Safety & Hygiene: Maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, adhering to HACCP and COSHH regulations.
- Health & Safety: Manage health and safety on a daily basis.
Who We Are Looking For:
- A skilled and experienced cook with a passion for creating healthy and delicious meals.
- A strong leader with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A meticulous individual with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to food safety.
- A team player who is adaptable, reliable, and able to work independently.
If you are a dedicated and enthusiastic cook looking for a fulfilling role in a welcoming school environment, we encourage you to apply. Join us at Frome College and become part of our dedicated team!
There are many advantages to working for us. Included in your actual annual salary is generous annual leave entitlement, access to a local government pension scheme, sick pay scheme, cycle-to-work scheme, free eye tests and employee assistance helpline. You also have access to an employee benefits platform which offers savings on everyday essentials to special offers on travel, dining, and entertainment.
We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
Safeguarding Statement: Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership 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. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Lead Cook in Frome employer: Midsomer Norton Primary
Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant town of Frome, Somerset, where we foster a supportive and inclusive community dedicated to the wellbeing of our students and staff. As a Lead Cook, you will enjoy a collaborative work culture, generous annual leave, access to a local government pension scheme, and various employee benefits that enhance your work-life balance. Join us in creating nutritious meals in a nurturing environment that values your contributions and encourages professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Cook in Frome
✨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 Midsomer Norton Primary. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Midsomer Norton Primary
Don't be shy about reaching out to Midsomer Norton Primary 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 Lead Cook in Frome
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 Midsomer Norton Primary 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 Midsomer Norton Primary
✨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!
