Assistant Chef

Contribute to the continuous improvement and development of the catering service through effective quality assurance processes.

Promote healthy eating initiatives and encourage uptake of healthy meal options.

Maintain regular communication with school leaders and stakeholders to ensure the service meets customer needs and expectations.

Respond professionally and effectively to customer enquiries, feedback, and complaints.

Support the preparation, production, presentation, and portion control of food to a consistently high standard.

Organise and supervise food preparation and service activities to ensure efficient daily operations.

Assist in the planning and delivery of catering for school events, functions, and external requirements.

Ensure all food is prepared and presented in accordance with nutritional standards and school deadlines.

Lead, motivate, and support kitchen staff, fostering a positive and cohesive team environment.

Deliver induction training to new staff and identify ongoing training and development needs.

Ensure all team members wear appropriate protective clothing and follow safe working practices.

Attend relevant meetings, training courses, and professional development activities as required.

Ensure compliance with food hygiene regulations, health and safety legislation, COSHH requirements, and Trust policies.

Support the safe management of medical diets and ensure compliance with Natasha's Law.

Maintain high standards of personal hygiene, kitchen hygiene, and food safety practices.

Ensure catering equipment is maintained, used safely, and reported for repair when necessary.

Participate in the cleaning and maintenance of catering equipment and kitchen areas using approved products and procedures.

Support the provision of first aid and maintain the security of the kitchen and surrounding areas.

Follow all financial procedures and systems accurately and consistently.

Complete all administrative tasks associated with the role in a timely manner.

Ensure effective stock control, waste reduction, and adherence to budgetary requirements.

Contribute to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

Demonstrate a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the role.

Support the Trust's values, ethos, and commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all.

The post holder will:

Maintain high standards of attendance, punctuality, personal presentation, and professionalism.

Build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, pupils, parents, and other stakeholders.

Adhere to all Trust and school policies, procedures, and codes of conduct.

Take responsibility for their own professional development and actively seek opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.

Plan and prioritise workloads effectively whilst responding flexibly to changing demands.

Support activities that enhance the wider life of the school and strengthen partnerships with parents and the community.

Contribute to the achievement of the Trust's and school's strategic aims and long-term vision.

Carry out any other duties that are commensurate with the grade and nature of the post and that reasonably fall within its scope.

This job description is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may be reviewed and amended from time to time in line with the needs of the Trust and school, provided that the general nature of the role remains unchanged.