At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals in a vibrant kitchen and support exciting school events.
- Company: Join Thomas Franks, a fresh food catering business with a passion for excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Access to training, social events, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team in a beautiful setting while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a passion for food are essential.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 38000 £ per year.
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: £17,80
Hours: 40h per week
This role is based within a small group of two schools supporting the world’s leading centre for classical ballet training. Located in Richmond, the site caters for approximately 215 covers daily at the main house, delivering breakfast and supper service seven days a week. The role also includes involvement in large-scale hospitality functions and occasional support for holiday lets. Due to the unique location of the site, having access to your own transport would be highly beneficial.
We are currently seeking a talented Sous Chef. We have an excellent opportunity for a creative and motivated Sous Chef to join our team at one of our prestigious locations in Richmond. This is a hands-on role within a professional kitchen, supporting the delivery of high-quality food service across all meal periods, ensuring consistent standards and smooth daily operations.
What makes this role attractive:
- Set in beautiful park surroundings
- Free transport provided from Richmond station to the school
- Discounts available for selected London theatres and the Royal Opera House
- Opportunity to be involved in school events and functions
- Consistent cooking for under 200 covers in a well-structured environment
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare all food service areas in readiness for daily meal service
- Ensure timely and high-quality service of all meals in line with company and client standards
- Prepare, set up, serve, clear, clean and store all food, beverage and equipment required for service
- Produce all food from scratch following company hygiene, safety, and presentation standards
- Restock and replenish food and consumables during service to maintain smooth operations
- Communicate with Front of House regarding stock levels, delays, and service updates
- Complete all cleaning and hygiene duties to maintain excellent kitchen standards
- Support the preparation and placement of orders as required
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations at all times
- Maintain a clean and organised kitchen at the end of each shift
- Attend meetings and training sessions as required
- Support stock control and inform Head Chef of stock movements and requirements
- Provide support and cover for colleagues when required
General Responsibilities:
- Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and legal requirements at all times
- Maintain high standards of personal presentation, hygiene, and uniform
- Complete all necessary temperature and food safety checks
- Report hazards or concerns promptly to the Head Chef or Location Manager
- Be flexible and willing to support wider team needs as required
- Assist with reasonable requests from management
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Strong team player with excellent communication skills
- Ability to work independently and use initiative
- Reliable, honest, and customer-focused attitude
- Passion for food, service, and continuous learning
- Flexible approach to working in a busy kitchen environment
- Ability to safely manage moderate lifting, carrying, and manual handling tasks
- Good spoken English
- Good reading and written English skills
- Previous experience in a food preparation or busy kitchen environment is desirable
Access to the Wider Wallet discount scheme, offering savings at major retailers, restaurants, gyms and more. Free meals on duty. Volunteer leave – up to one paid day per year to support a charity or cause of your choice. Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave. Cycle to Work scheme. Refer a Friend bonus scheme. Outstanding training and development opportunities tailored to your career progression. Well-established apprenticeship programme. Regular team and company social events. Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support. Company workplace pension scheme. Excellent and genuine career progression opportunities within a leading independent contract caterer.
About us: Thomas Franks is a founder led, fresh food catering business with a focus 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.
Disclaimer: All applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have the Right to Work in the UK to be considered for this role. An enhanced DBS, Identity & reference checks (covering the last five years) will form part of the selection process. As an organisation using the Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Disclosure service to assess applicants' suitability for positions of trust, Thomas Franks Ltd complies fully with the DBS Code of Practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for positions fairly. We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and undertake not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a Disclosure based on conviction or other information revealed. However, for any post in a school please be aware that any application is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such any criminal conviction, caution or bind-over must be declared.
Diversity and Inclusion at Thomas Franks: We actively encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and continue to develop a culture of growth and inclusion and would like to invite applications from groups who are currently under-represented, because we believe greater diversity leads to exceptional results and provides a better working life.
Creative Sous Chef at Richmond School Kitchen | Free Meals employer: Thomas Franks Ltd
Thomas Franks is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises creativity and collaboration within a professional kitchen environment. Located in the picturesque Richmond area, employees enjoy free meals, access to discounts at renowned London theatres, and opportunities for personal and professional growth through tailored training programmes and a well-established apprenticeship scheme. With a commitment to employee wellbeing and a focus on diversity and inclusion, Thomas Franks provides a supportive atmosphere where team members can thrive and contribute to high-quality food service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Sous Chef at Richmond School Kitchen | Free Meals
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen vibe! If you can, visit the Richmond School Kitchen before applying. Chat with the team, soak up the atmosphere, and show them you're genuinely interested in being part of their culinary family.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Bring a few of your signature dishes to the interview or share some innovative ideas on how you’d elevate their menu. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to high-quality food service.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local culinary events. They might give you insider tips about the role or even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Thomas Franks team and ready to dive into the world of fresh food catering.
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Sous Chef at Richmond School Kitchen | Free Meals
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary experiences and what inspires you in the kitchen. We want to see that creative spark!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the role of Creative Sous Chef. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their background with our needs.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we love a friendly tone, remember to maintain professionalism in your application. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. A well-organised application shows us you can handle the busy kitchen environment!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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 to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thomas Franks Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the menu and the types of dishes served at the Richmond School Kitchen. Be ready to discuss your favourite ingredients and how you would use them creatively in the kitchen. This shows your passion for food and your understanding of the role.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
As a Sous Chef, teamwork is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in a busy kitchen environment. Highlight your communication skills and how you handle challenges as part of a team.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility
This role requires a flexible approach to working hours and tasks. Be prepared to discuss times when you've adapted to changing circumstances in the kitchen. Show that you're willing to support your colleagues and take on various responsibilities.
✨Safety First!
Health and safety are paramount in any kitchen. Brush up on food safety regulations and be ready to talk about how you ensure compliance in your work. Mention any relevant certifications or training you've completed to reinforce your commitment to maintaining high standards.
