At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the catering team, ensuring delicious meals and high hygiene standards for students.
- Company: Oakfield Lodge School, a supportive environment focused on inclusion and growth.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, health support, and lifestyle discounts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to professionalism and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while developing your catering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, budgeting, and a passion for supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Oakfield Lodge School is a 60‑place secondary pupil referral unit providing short‑stay education for children aged 11‑16 years. The school caters for students who are outside of mainstream education as a result of a permanent exclusion. Students are referred by the local authority education access officer from Cheshire East. We are part of Manor Hall Academy Trust, a multi‑academy trust founded by a collaboration of special schools, united by a shared ethos, values, and collective aspirations. Guided by our commitment that Everyone Belongs, Learns and Grows, it is a special place to work, grounded in mutual respect, continuous growth, and high expectations across all aspects of our work.
About the Role
This is a temporary position for a minimum of 6 months. The Catering Supervisor will be responsible for the day‑to‑day operation of the catering service, ensuring it meets school standards and Department of Education requirements. Key duties include overseeing food preparation, service delivery, hygiene, and compliance across the catering provision.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate kitchen fully, including cooking, food preparation and special dietary provision.
- Manage ordering, stock control and budgets, ensuring correct financial processes.
- Maintain high hygiene, health & safety standards and accurate record keeping.
- Provide meal service, organise dining set‑ups, clearing and cleaning after service.
- Support school events and emergency catering needs.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, HR and statutory requirements affecting catering.
What We’re Looking For
- Skilled in catering operations and food preparation.
- Highly organised, adaptable and proactive.
- Experience in budgeting and financial management.
- Committed to high standards of hygiene, safety and service.
- Strong communicator with a team‑focused approach.
- Dedicated to safeguarding and supporting young people.
Our Values & Commitment
Oakfield Lodge is driven by inclusion, safeguarding, equality and continuous improvement. The catering team will contribute to a culture of professionalism, collaboration and care while supporting sustainable and health & safety practices.
What We Offer
- 25 days annual leave + 2 discretionary days + bank holidays (pro‑rata), increasing with service.
- Generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Health & wellbeing support, counselling and physiotherapy.
- Tech and Cycle to Work schemes.
- Retail and lifestyle discounts.
- A supportive and welcoming working environment.
Guaranteed Interview Scheme
As a Disability Confident employer, we are committed to inclusive recruitment. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, we will invite you to interview.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We will provide a full and transparent recruitment and selection process to all shortlisted candidates, including any additional safeguarding checks required for working with children.
Catering Supervisor in Crewe employer: Oakfield Lodge School
Oakfield Lodge School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide generous leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, all while fostering a culture of collaboration and care. Located within the Manor Hall Academy Trust, our school prioritises high standards and continuous improvement, making it a rewarding place to contribute to the education and development of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Supervisor in Crewe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the catering industry or even at Oakfield Lodge School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, offer to help out at local events or school functions. This not only builds your experience but also puts you on the radar of potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Send a friendly email to the catering team at Oakfield Lodge School expressing your interest and asking about any upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your online presence sharp! Update your LinkedIn profile with your latest experiences and skills. Make sure it reflects your passion for catering and working with young people, as this can catch the eye of recruiters.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Supervisor in Crewe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Catering:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for catering! Share any relevant experiences or skills that highlight your love for food preparation and service. We want to know why you’re excited about this role!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experience and how it relates to the key responsibilities of the Catering Supervisor role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:Since we value collaboration, make sure to mention your ability to work well in a team. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive working environment. We’re all about teamwork here at Oakfield Lodge!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakfield Lodge School
✨Know Your Catering Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of food preparation, hygiene standards, and dietary requirements. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the importance of compliance in a school setting.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed budgets, stock control, or organised events in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the day-to-day operations of the catering service effectively, which is crucial for this position.
✨Communicate Your Team Spirit
Since the role requires a strong team-focused approach, think of instances where you've worked collaboratively with others. Be ready to share how you support your colleagues and contribute to a positive working environment.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the nature of the school, it's vital to express your dedication to safeguarding and supporting young people. Prepare to discuss any relevant experience you have in this area, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
