At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to create delicious meals for students and staff using fresh ingredients.
- Company: Thomas Franks, a unique catering business focused on excellence and individuality.
- Benefits: Free meals, discounts, enhanced leave, and excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and make a real impact in a vibrant school environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fast-paced kitchens and a genuine love for food.
- Other info: Great career progression and a culture that values diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
An independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 in Reading, Berkshire caters for 550 students and teachers daily. We offer breakfast, AM break, lunch, afternoon break and supper, and the role is part of a 7‑day operation with a varying working pattern. Additional benefits include free on‑site parking and a discounted gym membership.
We are looking for a talented Chef De Partie to join our team in Reading. You will have previous experience working in a fast‑paced kitchen at CDP or junior sous‑chef level, and you will be excited to work with fresh seasonal ingredients and regularly changing bespoke menus.
Key Responsibilities- Work well in a team of chefs to provide catering services for pupils and teachers.
- Produce food for service using fresh ingredients, cooking from scratch and following the company’s brand standards.
- Ensure company food standards are adhered to and wastage is controlled.
- Follow all Food Hygiene, Health & Safety policies and allergen control procedures.
- A genuine interest in food & sharp customer service skills.
- All‑round team player with innovative passion for great food.
- Organised chef with attention to detail.
- Basic understanding of food cost and wastage.
- Reasonable understanding and use of spoken English.
- Reasonable written English and reading skills.
- Preferred experience in customer and/or food preparation environments.
- Wider wallet scheme (discounts at major retailers, restaurants, gyms, etc.).
- Free meals on duty.
- Volunteer leave – up to one day per year.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoptive leave.
- Cycle-to-work scheme.
- Recommend a friend bonus.
- Unrivalled individual training and development.
- Well‑established apprenticeship programme.
- Team & company social events.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Workplace pension.
- Excellent career progression within a leading independent contract caterer.
About Thomas Franks: Thomas Franks is a founder‑led, fresh‑food catering business focused on excellence and service delivered with individuality, passion and style. We are unique in every approach and our clients, and our people, are paramount to our daily success.
Diversity & Inclusion: We actively encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and continuing to develop a culture of growth and inclusion, welcoming those who are currently under‑represented, as we believe greater diversity leads to exceptional results and a better working life.
Chef De Partie in Reading employer: Thomas Franks Ltd
Contact Detail:
Thomas Franks Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef De Partie in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with fellow chefs, attend culinary events, or join local food groups. 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 will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to restaurants or catering companies you admire and express your interest. A personal touch can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented chefs like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef De Partie in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Talk about your experience with fresh ingredients and any creative dishes you've crafted. We want to see that you’re excited about cooking and can bring that energy to our team.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Chef De Partie role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in fast-paced kitchens, and mention any specific skills that match what we’re looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read, so make sure your key skills and experiences stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thomas Franks Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with seasonal ingredients and the types of dishes you might be preparing. Being able to discuss your favourite ingredients and how you would use them in a menu can really impress the interviewers.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in a kitchen, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles. Highlighting your ability to work well under pressure and support your colleagues will show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Master the Basics of Food Safety
Brush up on food hygiene and safety regulations before the interview. Being knowledgeable about allergen control and waste management will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.
✨Bring Your Passion for Food
Let your enthusiasm for cooking shine through during the interview. Share stories about your culinary journey, what inspires you, and any innovative ideas you have for menus. This will help convey your genuine interest in the role and the company.