At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and support a vibrant school community.
- Company: Old Buckenham Hall, a nurturing environment focused on student welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a difference by providing nutritious meals to students and staff.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking and knowledge of dietary needs.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 € per year.
We are seeking a Chef to join our Old Buckenham Hall Catering team. You will ideally have a passion for overall belief in the importance of supporting the School’s aims and objectives through the provision of nutritious, appealing and varied meals for students, staff and visitors.
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
- Operation and storage of catering equipment in accordance with instructions
- Assist in allergen labelling.
All staff, contractors, volunteers have a responsibility and duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils. Staff must be aware of the systems within the school which support safeguarding and must act in accordance with the School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection policy and Code of Conduct. Staff will receive appropriate child protection training which is regularly updated.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are key facets of our core ethos that ‘the Whole Person is the Whole point’. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or age.
How to apply: Please register and complete an application via our recruitment portal. Applications will be considered upon receipt, and we reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date. Therefore, an early application is strongly advised. Closing date: 12 June 2026.
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 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.
Chef in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Old Buckenham Hall is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where creativity in meal preparation is encouraged. Located in the picturesque Suffolk countryside, the school provides a unique opportunity for chefs to contribute to the health and happiness of students while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule with generous holiday allowances. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, employees can thrive in an environment that values their contributions and fosters professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school’s ethos and values. When you’re chatting with them, show how your passion for cooking aligns with their mission of providing nutritious meals. It’ll help you stand out as someone who truly gets what they’re about!
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just talk about your skills; demonstrate them! If you get a chance to do a trial shift or cooking demo, go for it. This is your moment to shine and show off your culinary flair in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you insider tips on what the school really values in a chef, which could be a game changer for your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for cooking and providing nutritious meals shine through. We want to see how you can contribute to our school's aims and objectives with your culinary skills.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Chef at Old Buckenham Hall. Highlight your experience with meal preparation, presentation, and any knowledge of dietary needs that aligns with what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences relevant to the role.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute! We encourage you to apply through our website as soon as possible. Early applications are more likely to be considered, so get your application in and show us what you've got!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Recipes
Make sure you’re familiar with the recipes and methods mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your culinary skills and be ready to discuss how you would prepare meals that are nutritious and appealing for students and staff.
✨Showcase Your Presentation Skills
During the interview, highlight your ability to present food beautifully. Bring along photos of your previous work or even a portfolio if you have one. This will demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
✨Understand Dietary Needs
Be prepared to discuss key nutrient groups and specific dietary needs. Familiarise yourself with common allergens and dietary restrictions so you can confidently explain how you would cater to diverse requirements.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Cleanliness
Talk about your experience working in a team and maintaining a clean working environment. Share examples of how you’ve contributed to a positive kitchen atmosphere and adhered to hygiene standards, as this is crucial in a school setting.
