Chef de Partie - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract in Sevenoaks

Location: Sevenoaks School, High Street Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1HU

Rate of Pay: £15.84 per hour

Hours: 40 Hours per week

Shift Pattern: Any 5 out of 7 days in a week

12 Month Fixed Term Contract (FTC)

Job Introduction

Do you have a passion for cooking and delivering high quality dishes? Join Sodexo as a Chef de Partie at Sevenoaks School where you'll play a key role in preparing fresh, nutritious meals that support students and staff throughout their day. You'll be part of a collaborative kitchen team that values creativity, care, and bringing people together through exceptional food.

What You'll Do

• Take responsibility for preparing and cooking high quality dishes, ensuring every meal is delivered to an excellent standard and served on time at the correct temperature.
• Support the Head Chef and wider kitchen team with day to day food preparation, maintaining smooth and efficient service throughout busy periods.
• Receive and check deliveries, store ingredients correctly, and follow stock rotation procedures (including first in, first out) to ensure freshness and minimise waste.
• Maintain exceptional standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety in line with company policies, Safer Recruitment expectations, and legal regulations.
• Work collaboratively with the catering team to create a positive, supportive kitchen environment that contributes to a great experience for students and staff.
• Assist with school events, themed days, and special functions when required, which may occasionally take place outside normal working hours.
• Provide a friendly, professional, and approachable service, supporting the school community with a high standard of catering.
• Follow portion control guidelines and help minimise food waste, contributing to a cost effective and sustainable catering operation.
• Bring forward ideas for menu improvements, service enhancements, and ways to elevate the overall dining experience.

What You Bring

• A passion for cooking, a positive attitude, and genuine enthusiasm for producing high quality food as part of a professional kitchen team.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to manage your section confidently and maintain smooth service during busy periods.
• The ability to work well under pressure while upholding excellent standards of cleanliness, food safety, and attention to detail.
• A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or above), with a strong understanding of allergen management and safe kitchen practices.
• An Enhanced DBS clearance will be completed for this role.
• A proactive and reliable approach, with a willingness to learn, develop your skills further, and contribute creative ideas to menus and service.
• Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or in a similar professional kitchen role is essential.
• Experience in a school or contract catering setting would be advantageous.

What We Offer

Working with Sodexo isn't just another job but a chance to be part of something that matters. Here, you're welcomed for who you are, encouraged to bring your ideas and purpose to the table, and given the opportunity to make a real difference in the work you do every day. You'll also find the support, flexibility, and room you need to grow in a way that feels right for you. With over 20 Sodexo benefits to choose from, you'll have access to a competitive retirement plan, discounts at 1,900+ retail brands, great gym offers, and a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for emotional, legal, and financial support.

Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and/or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland).