Education jobs in United Kingdom

Salary £14.35 per hour (circa £29,848.00 per year)

Hours: 40 hours per week

Shifts: 5 days over 7

Contract: 52 weeks per year

Enhanced PVG checks required

We are looking for an experienced Chef to join our dedicated kitchen team at St Leonards School, St Andrews. This is a full-time, 52-week position, created to support the increasing demands of school catering, functions, and holiday lets, while providing consistent cover throughout the year.

You will work closely with the Executive Chef, leading daily kitchen operations and ensuring the highest standards of food production, presentation, hygiene, and safety. When required, you will take full responsibility for kitchen management and food service delivery in the Executive Chef’s absence.

• Assist the Executive Chef in the planning, preparation, and delivery of all menus.

• Maintain food quality and presentation standards in line with Sodexo and client expectations.

• Ensure full compliance with all food hygiene, allergen, and safety regulations (Food Safety Act 1990).

• Supervise and motivate kitchen staff, ensuring consistent standards and efficient teamwork.

• Support special events and school functions, occasionally outside normal working hours.

• Enforce cleaning schedules and kitchen hygiene protocols.

• Manage allergen awareness and training across the kitchen team.

• Maintain a professional standard of dress, conduct, and communication at all times.

• Monitor food stock, deliveries, and wastage in line with budget and sustainability goals.

• Contribute to continuous improvement in quality, safety, and client satisfaction.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience cooking on a large scale (100–1300 students).

• Prior supervisory or line management experience in a professional kitchen.

• Strong knowledge of fresh produce, ingredients, and modern cooking techniques.

• NVQ Level 2 and Level 2 Food Safety Certificate (or equivalent).

• Understanding of food hygiene, allergens, and health & safety regulations.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and lead by example.

• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

• At least one year of hands‑on professional cooking experience.

Desirable

• Proven experience managing client relationships.

• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate a team.

• Experience within the education or contract catering sector.

This full-time, year-round Sous Chef position offers:

• Consistent cover across all services, including during lets and events.

• Reduced reliance on overtime and temporary staff.

• Improved service quality and team well‑being.

• Greater flexibility for the Executive Chef to focus on planning and compliance.

• Free meals while on duty

• Competitive salary and benefits package

• No unsociable hours – public holidays and Christmas off!

• Full uniform and comprehensive training provided

• Access to wellbeing and mental health support

• Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, and personal support)

• Discounts, cashback schemes, and Sodexo benefits

• Career progression, learning, and apprenticeship opportunities

• Cycle to Work Scheme and volunteering opportunities

At Sodexo, we believe everyone deserves a place to belong. This isn’t just a job — it’s an opportunity to lead with passion and cook with purpose. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a supportive, values‑driven team, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us create a brighter, tastier future at St Leonards School!

Please note: Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding children. All roles require pre‑employment screening, including a PVG check Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.