At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to create nutritious meals and a positive dining experience.
- Company: Join Notley High School, a supportive community focused on student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development opportunities and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a thriving school community with a commitment to excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through healthy eating and leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering management and a Level 3 Food Safety qualification required.
About the role: Lead a Catering Service That Makes a Difference Every Day. Are you passionate about food, leadership, and creating a positive experience for young people? We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Catering Manager to lead our busy school catering provision. This is an exciting operational opportunity to shape and develop a service that sits at the heart of our school community, providing nutritious, high-quality meals that support the wellbeing and success of our students.
As Catering Manager, you will lead a dedicated team, oversee menu planning and food provision, manage budgets and suppliers, and ensure the highest standards of food safety and customer service. You will play a key role in promoting healthy eating whilst creating an enjoyable dining experience for students and staff. Whether you already work in an educational setting or are an experienced catering professional looking for your next challenge, we would love to hear from you.
Why Join Notley High School & Braintree Sixth Form? At Notley High School, we are proud of the culture we have created for both students and staff. In our May 2026 Ofsted inspection, we were recognised for the strengths of our school community, describing:
- “Leaders and staff at all levels are determined that every child thrives.”
- “Leaders listen to the views of staff and pupils.”
- “Staff are highly positive about working here.”
Staff benefit from a range of high-quality professional development opportunities. We are part of Bridge Academy Trust, a family of schools committed to ensuring every child flourishes through high-quality education, exceptional care, and ambition for all.
The Role: As our Catering Manager, you will:
- Lead and inspire the catering team
- Plan and deliver nutritious, appealing menus
- Manage food purchasing, stock control, and budgets
- Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and allergen regulations
- Support healthy eating initiatives across the school
- Create a welcoming dining experience for students and staff
- Drive continuous improvement and innovation within the catering provision
We Are Looking for Someone Who:
- Has experience in catering management or a similar leadership role
- Holds a Level 3 Food Safety qualification (or equivalent)
- Has strong organisational and budget management skills
- Understands food hygiene, allergens, and catering compliance
- Enjoys working with young people and within a school community
- Can motivate and develop a team to deliver excellent service
- Shares our commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children
Catering Manager in Braintree employer: Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form
Notley High School & Braintree Sixth Form is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, where staff are valued and encouraged to thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development and a focus on creating a positive impact in the lives of young people, our Catering Manager role offers the opportunity to lead a dedicated team in providing nutritious meals that enhance student wellbeing. Join us in making a difference every day within a vibrant school community that prioritises both educational excellence and employee satisfaction.
Contact Details:
Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager in Braintree
✨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 Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form
Don't be shy about reaching out to Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form 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 Manager in Braintree
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 Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form 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 Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form
✨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!
