At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee daily kitchen operations and manage a team to deliver nutritious meals.
- Company: The Wordsley School is part of the Stour Vale Academy Trust, known for its positive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time working for better work-life balance and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Position is 37 hours per week, term time only, with a salary range of £26,761 to £29,220.
- Why this job: Lead a valued service in a dynamic school environment focused on excellence.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Catering and Food Hygiene certification are essential.
The predicted salary is between 26761 - 29220 £ per year.
Join us and help shape a positive, healthy dining experience for our school community. A unique opportunity to make a difference in a dynamic and forward‑thinking school, which prides itself on its culture and ethos. Are you a passionate and experienced catering professional ready to lead a busy school kitchen? The Wordsley School is seeking an enthusiastic and organised Catering Manager to oversee our catering provision and deliver a high‑quality dining experience for our pupils, staff and visitors.
About the Role
As Catering Manager, you will take full operational responsibility for the school’s catering service. You will lead, inspire and manage a team of catering staff to deliver nutritious, high‑quality meals in a safe, clean and welcoming environment—aligned with our ethos of “excellence for all.” Key responsibilities include:
- Managing the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen and dining service
- Planning, preparing and delivering appealing, healthy menus
- Leading and developing a team of catering staff
- Managing the catering budget, stock control and minimising waste
- Ensuring high standards of food hygiene, health & safety, and allergen compliance
- Maintaining accurate records, including quality assurance and statutory documentation
- Creating a positive dining experience for pupils and staff
You will also work closely with the School Business Manager and external catering partners to continuously improve the service and meet the needs of the school community.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a motivated and hands‑on professional with:
- Proven experience managing a busy kitchen and delivering high‑quality food within budget
- Strong leadership skills, with experience supervising and motivating teams
- Knowledge of food hygiene, allergen legislation (including Natasha’s Law), and health & safety standards
- Experience in menu planning and promoting healthy eating
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- A commitment to high standards, attention to detail and customer care
Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in Catering (or equivalent) and Food Hygiene certification are essential.
Why Join Us?
- Term‑time working for a better work‑life balance
- A supportive and inclusive school environment
- Opportunity to lead and shape a valued service within the school
- Ongoing training and professional development
Safeguarding Statement
Stour Vale Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will carry out pre‑appointment checks including DBS and will disqualify any applicant where we consider the outcomes to be unsatisfactory. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. We are equally committed to ensuring that no applicant will be disadvantaged or discriminated against because of their protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
Catering Manager in Dudley employer: The Wordsley School
Join The Wordsley School, located in Stour Vale, where you can shape a positive dining experience. Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for ongoing training. The school prides itself on its commitment to excellence and inclusivity.
