At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious meals for students and staff in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join a supportive school community dedicated to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and opportunities for creativity in menu planning.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with a focus on safeguarding and child welfare.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on students' lives through nutritious and tasty meals.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and knowledge of dietary needs preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 € per year.
Location: Old Buckenham Hall, Brettenham Park, Suffolk IP7 7PH.
Salary: £25,000 per annum.
Hours: 36.25 hours per week; 40.4 weeks per year (33 weeks term time + 7.4 weeks out of term time).
Contract: Permanent.
Reference: 8993.
Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities
- Prepare meals in accordance with agreed recipes and methods.
- Present food to a high standard.
- Have knowledge of key nutrient groups and specific dietary needs.
- Serve food to staff and students, adhering to portion controls.
- Contribute ideas for school events.
- Ensure the maintenance of a clean and orderly working environment.
- Undertake basic record-keeping as required.
- Assist in the monitoring and arrangement of orderly and secure storage of supplies.
- Operate and store catering equipment in accordance with instructions.
- Assist in allergen labelling.
All staff, contractors, and volunteers have a responsibility and duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils. Staff must be aware of the safeguarding systems within the school and act in accordance with the School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection policy and Code of Conduct. Child protection training will be provided and regularly updated.
Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, social media checks, and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or age.
Closing date: 12 June 2026.
Chef in Bury St Edmunds employer: Suffolk County Council
At Old Buckenham Hall, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where creativity in the kitchen is encouraged. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ongoing training opportunities, including child protection training, ensuring that our staff are well-equipped to provide a safe and nurturing atmosphere for our students. Located in the picturesque Suffolk countryside, we offer a unique chance to contribute to the culinary experience of our school community while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule during term time.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with fellow chefs, join culinary groups, and attend local food events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio of your best dishes and any catering events you've worked on. Bring it along to interviews or share it online to catch the eye of potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job ads to pop up. Reach out directly to schools or restaurants you admire and express your interest. A friendly email can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find and apply for chef positions. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience in preparing meals and presenting food beautifully. We want to see your passion for cooking and how you can bring that to our kitchen!
Know Your Nutrients:Don’t forget to mention your knowledge of key nutrient groups and dietary needs. This is super important for us, as we cater to a diverse group of students and staff. Show us you’re the right fit!
Keep It Clean and Organised:We value a clean and orderly working environment, so include any relevant experience you have in maintaining hygiene standards and managing supplies. It’s all about teamwork and keeping our kitchen running smoothly!
Apply Through Our Website:Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Recipes
Make sure you’re familiar with the recipes and methods mentioned in the job description. Practise preparing a few dishes that showcase your skills, as you might be asked to demonstrate your cooking abilities during the interview.
✨Understand Dietary Needs
Brush up on key nutrient groups and specific dietary requirements. Be ready to discuss how you would cater to different dietary needs, especially in a school environment where allergies and preferences are crucial.
✨Showcase Your Presentation Skills
Presentation is key in this role. Bring along photos or a portfolio of your previous work to show how you present food. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your attention to detail.
✨Be Prepared for Safeguarding Questions
Since this role involves working with children, be prepared to discuss safeguarding practices. Familiarise yourself with the school's policies and be ready to explain how you would ensure a safe environment for students.
