At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious meals while ensuring dietary needs are met.
- Company: Join a supportive school environment focused on student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and a permanent contract with term-time hours.
- Other info: Child protection training provided; we value diversity and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives through nutritious and tasty food.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and knowledge of dietary requirements 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 employer: Suffolk County Council
At Old Buckenham Hall, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values the contributions of every team member. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ongoing training opportunities, including child protection training, ensuring you are well-equipped to thrive in your role as a Chef. Located in the picturesque Suffolk countryside, we provide a unique environment where you can create delicious meals for our students while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule during term time.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨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! If you can, create a portfolio of your best dishes or even a short video showcasing your cooking techniques. This can really help you stand out when you’re meeting potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to schools or restaurants you admire and express your interest. A friendly email or call can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience with preparing meals and any special dietary knowledge you have. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our kitchen!
Keep It Clean and Organised:Mention your ability to maintain a clean working environment and your experience with record-keeping. This shows us that you take pride in your work and understand the importance of organisation in a busy kitchen.
Be Creative!:Don’t hesitate to share your ideas for school events or menu innovations. We love creativity and want to know how you can contribute to making our dining experience even better!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure 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’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Recipes
Make sure you’re familiar with the recipes and cooking 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 for children, as this is crucial in a school environment.
✨Showcase Your Presentation Skills
Presentation is key in the culinary world. Prepare to talk about how you ensure food is presented to a high standard. You could even bring along photos of your previous work to impress the interviewers!
✨Emphasise Cleanliness and Safety
Highlight your commitment to maintaining a clean and orderly working environment. Be prepared to discuss your experience with food safety practices and allergen labelling, as these are vital in a school setting.
