At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in delivering top-notch catering services and ensure high standards of hygiene and safety.
- Company: Join a supportive school environment dedicated to student welfare and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, generous leave, a pension scheme, and access to gym facilities.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful semi-rural location with plenty of social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant setting while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and supervisory roles, with strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 28500 - 29536 £ per year.
Permanent, 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Shifts 5 out of 7, Monday – Sunday, to include 1 day at the weekend. Shifts alternate weekly between 6.30am-3pm and 12-8.30pm. Salary: £28,500.00 - £29,536.00 per annum.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced catering professional to step into a leadership role at our school. As Catering Team Leader, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of our catering operations, supervising a dedicated team and maintaining the highest standards of service, hygiene and safety. If you’re passionate about food service, thrive in a team environment and are ready to make a real impact, this role is for you. Your own means of transport is essential, as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.
What you'll be doing:
- Supervising catering assistants during shifts, ensuring tasks are completed to a high standard.
- Overseeing the preparation and cleanliness of dining rooms, salad counters, and food service areas before each service.
- Conducting pre-service briefings, including allergen and dietary requirement updates.
- Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, food hygiene standards, and completing all necessary records (e.g., cleaning schedules, temperature logs).
- Supporting hospitality and school events, ensuring smooth service delivery.
- Ordering non-food items, including COSHH products, and ensuring proper storage and usage.
- Assisting with staff induction, training, and implementing new ideas to enhance the catering department.
What we're looking for:
- Previous experience in a similar catering role.
- Previous supervisory experience.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to lead and direct a team.
- High standards of personal hygiene and a commitment to maintaining a clean, safe working environment.
- Ability to work unsupervised, using initiative, and remaining calm under pressure.
- A flexible and proactive approach to work.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils.
- Level 2 Food Safety and Level 3 Supervising Food Safety qualifications desirable.
What we offer:
- Generous pension scheme with a 9% employer contribution.
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays.
- Delicious free meals while on duty.
- Life insurance and critical illness cover.
- A supportive induction programme.
- Access to modern gym and swimming pool facilities at set times.
- A beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location.
- A variety of social occasions throughout the year.
Downe House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references, qualifications, experience checks, medical clearance, enhanced DBS checks, social media checks, and documentary evidence showing your entitlement to work in the UK. We promote equality of opportunity and support an environment that values and promotes diversity and inclusion.
Catering Supervisor/Team Leader employer: The Independent Schools Council
At Downe House, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal growth. As a Catering Supervisor/Team Leader, you'll enjoy generous benefits including a competitive salary, a robust pension scheme, and delicious free meals while on duty, all within a beautiful semi-rural setting that fosters a sense of community and well-being. With opportunities for professional development and a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, joining our team means making a meaningful impact in a rewarding environment.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Supervisor/Team Leader
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like The Independent Schools Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Independent Schools Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Independent Schools Council directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Supervisor/Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about The Independent Schools Council and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
