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- Tasks: Lead a team to prepare nutritious meals for residents in a caring environment.
- Company: Family-run care home dedicated to quality and compassion.
- Benefits: Free training, uniforms, parking, pension scheme, and long service recognition.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through delicious, healthy meals.
- Qualifications: Strong food hygiene knowledge and team leadership experience preferred.
- Other info: Flexible 7-day rota with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 28 - 32 £ per hour.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Head Cook / Chef to join our team of dedicated staff. The role is based at Picktree Court Care Home in Chester le Street. Picktree Court is family run and prides itself on the quality of care we deliver.
You will be responsible for preparing and cooking a balanced, nutritious diet within a controlled hygienic environment, meeting residents’ dietary requirements as necessary. Responsibilities include:
- Working with raw ingredients
- Required knowledge of food/nutrition
- Preparing and cooking nutritional food from fresh to a high standard at agreed meal times from set menus
- Ensuring rotation of foodstuffs
- Ordering fresh food and other food
- Monitoring and recording temperature checks
As the Head Cook you will lead the catering team to provide nutritious and enticing meals for the residents in our care. You will be responsible for ensuring meal times are an enjoyable part of the day, involving residents in preparing and developing suitable menus.
The successful candidate must be able to work using their own initiative without supervision over a 7‑day rota. An excellent knowledge of food hygiene and food preparation is essential, along with a positive attitude and a desire to deliver the best possible service to the residents in our care. Experience of supervising and leading a team is desirable. A full driving licence is preferred to make short journeys between our Chester‑le‑Street care homes.
Benefits of working for Premier Care Homes include:
- Free training and qualifications
- Free uniforms
- Free onsite parking
- Pension scheme
- Recommend a Friend payments
- Long service recognition
- Free flu vaccination
Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. To apply, please call or email to request an application form.
Head Cook / Chef in Chester-le-Street employer: Premier Care Homes Ltd
Contact Detail:
Premier Care Homes Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Cook / Chef in Chester-le-Street
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, try to connect with current staff or even residents if possible. This will give you a feel for the environment and help you tailor your approach to fit in seamlessly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! If you get the chance, bring a sample of your cooking or suggest a dish that aligns with their menu. This not only showcases your talent but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your leadership style. As a Head Cook, you'll be leading a team, so think about how you motivate others and handle challenges. Share specific examples from your past experiences to make your case stronger.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Cook / Chef in Chester-le-Street
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When you're writing your application, let us know why you love cooking! Share your experiences and what drives you to create delicious meals. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
Highlight Your Team Leadership Skills: As a Head Cook, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to mention any previous experience you have in supervising or managing others. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and motivate their team to deliver top-notch meals.
Be Specific About Your Food Knowledge: We need someone with a solid understanding of food hygiene and nutrition. In your application, include any relevant qualifications or training you've had, and don’t forget to mention your experience with dietary requirements!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board as part of our family at Picktree Court!
How to prepare for a job interview at Premier Care Homes Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of food and nutrition. Be ready to discuss how you can prepare balanced meals that cater to various dietary needs. This shows you’re not just a cook, but someone who understands the importance of nutrition in care.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Cook, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen or led a team in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create a positive working environment.
✨Emphasise Hygiene Practices
Food hygiene is crucial in any kitchen, especially in a care home setting. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of food safety standards and how you implement them in your cooking process. This will demonstrate your commitment to providing safe and nutritious meals.
✨Engage with the Residents’ Needs
Think about how you can make meal times enjoyable for residents. Be ready to share ideas on how you would involve them in menu planning or cooking activities. This shows that you value their input and are dedicated to enhancing their dining experience.
