At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, create delicious meals, and inspire students in a vibrant environment.
- Company: North Hertfordshire College, a dynamic educational institution with a focus on student growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Join a friendly team and enjoy a fulfilling career in education and catering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by mentoring young chefs while doing what you love.
- Qualifications: Passion for hospitality, strong communication skills, and a knack for organisation.
Employer: North Hertfordshire College
Location: Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: £24,755 per annum FTE, plus benefits
Job Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week, working 38 weeks per year (may include evenings and weekends)
Location: Stevenage
About the Role:
We’re on the lookout for a talented Chef to join an exciting new venture at our Stevenage site! You’ll play a key role in running the kitchen and working alongside our students, helping to create delicious food for both staff and learners. This isn’t just any kitchen role — it’s your chance to inspire the next generation while doing what you love. You will be working whilst supporting a wide range of different levels of ability of young people to develop their confidence and customer service skills.
This could be the perfect recipe for you if you:
- Love all things Hospitality & Catering and are passionate about supporting young people to grow, learn, and reach their full potential
- Bring a professional, friendly, and approachable vibe, with great communication and people skills
- Stay cool under pressure, are super organised, and have a sharp eye for detail
About the Organisation:
The College operates across three main campuses in Stevenage and Hitchin, employing over 650 staff. With a turnover of £30m, the college provides learning opportunities to over 10,000 students each year from study programmes for 16-18 year olds and apprenticeships through to adult provision locally, regionally and nationally. We were judged Good by Ofsted at our last inspection in December 2023, with outstanding features.
Role and Responsibilities:
As our lead Chef, you’ll be the face of Stevenage Deli and deliver a consistently exceptional experience to our staff and students working in a team, whilst assisting and supporting each other with the day-to-day running of the outlet in both a Front of House and Back of House role and to support students in providing a daily food service adhering to our high expectations.
- Planning and implementing new and exciting menu concepts in alignment with our Hitchin Deli whilst keeping to a strict food budget both on a daily, weekly and monthly basis
- Support of the teaching sessions in ensuring that the commercial areas and the stock is correctly managed and the ordering and checking in of deliveries where appropriate are correctly carried out
- Stock management and rotation and a joint responsibility for supporting the safe Food Safety practices across the department
- Working with the tutors and students ensuring that the public areas are ready for services including cleaning daily, weekly and monthly cleaning
- Ensuring that all food and drink is prepared, cooked and served in strict accordance with the Government’s Food Standards and Health & Safety Policy and other relevant legislation including Natasha's law
- Working alongside the Head of Department ensuring that all Environmental Health paperwork is completed and updated regularly
- Assisting when required during practical teaching sessions in the Hart Kitchens Hub to include working with students
- Provide cover in the absence of Hospitality & Catering staff in other areas if required including Hitchin
General duties:
- To contribute to the effective management and promotion of equality and diversity
- To work in accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act, ensuring the College is a safe environment for staff, students and visitors
- To promote with staff and students the importance of safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults they are responsible for and come into contact with
- To work at all times in accordance with North Hertfordshire College’s policies and procedures
- To carry out such duties as may be required from time to time by the college that are appropriate to the grade of the post
This job description is intended as a general guide to the duties attached to the post and is not an inflexible specification.
Safeguarding Statement:
The Hart Learning Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, as our posts are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. It is also an offence to apply for a role if you have been barred from working with children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have been shortlisted for a role and are within the guidelines of KCSIE, an online search will be carried out to identify any incidents or issues that have happened and are publicly available online. If any incidents or issues are identified, the Group might want to explore these with you at the interview. As part of the recruitment process, you will need to provide proof of your right to work in the UK.
Catering Chef in Stevenage employer: North Hertfordshire College
North Hertfordshire College is an exceptional employer that values its staff and fosters a supportive work culture in the heart of Stevenage. With a commitment to employee development, you will have access to growth opportunities and resources to enhance your HR expertise while contributing to a diverse community of around 600 staff members. The college prioritises legal compliance and stakeholder engagement, ensuring a rewarding and impactful experience for all employees.
Contact Details:
North Hertfordshire College Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Chef in Stevenage
✨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 North Hertfordshire College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to North Hertfordshire College
Don't be shy about reaching out to North Hertfordshire College 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 Catering Chef in Stevenage
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 North Hertfordshire College 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 North Hertfordshire College
✨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!
