Who We Are
At Olive Dining, we believe great food brings people together — and there’s no better place to do that than in schools, where young minds are growing every day. We’re a dedicated school catering company serving fresh, nutritious meals to students across London, Kent, Surrey, and Essex.
Now, we’re on the lookout for a Chef to help us create delicious dishes and keep our kitchen running smoothly — with plenty of smiles along the way in the kitchen. If you’re passionate about food, love working in a team, and thrive in a fast-paced environment with purpose — this could be the perfect role for you.
Why You'll Love Working With Us
Family-Friendly Hours: Term time only, so you can enjoy school holidays too!
Weekends Off: Yes, really.
Supportive Team Culture: You're never just a number here.
Free Meals on Duty: Because Chefs should never work hungry.
Wellbeing First: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme including free CBT, health, and financial support.
Room to Grow: We believe in promoting from within and helping our people thrive.
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Your Day-to-Day
As our Sous Chef, you’ll work closely with the Head Chef/ Chef Manager to prepare, cook, and serve meals that students and staff will love. You’ll be part chef, part team player, and part mealtime hero — stepping in wherever you’re needed to keep service running like clockwork.
You’ll be working alongside the Chef Manager crafting delicious, balanced, and nutritious meals for the students and staff. From pizzas to pasta, healthy salads to hearty stews, your creations will fuel the next generation.
You’ll be working alongside your Chef Manager, Catering Assistants, and school Staff to ensure every meal is prepped, cooked, displayed and served in line with Olive Dining Standards and with a smile (and a dash of flair).
Supporting the Chef Manager in managing the kitchen during busy service times to ensure service runs smoothly.
You’ll ensure all dishes meet our high standards for taste, presentation, and nutrition—because the future leaders of tomorrow deserve the best!
The school day may be full of energy (and a few crumbs), but you’ll keep the kitchen running smoothly, making sure we never run out of stock!
Helping to set up, serve, and clear down after meals ensuring our customers have the best experience.
Maintaining a clean, tidy, and safe kitchen environment.
Leading and motivating the kitchen team, making sure everyone knows their tasks and works together.
And the completion of any other reasonable requests given by your Line Manager
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What You’ll Need
Experience in the kitchen is a must – whether it’s in schools, restaurants, or catering, we want someone who’s ready to jump in and get cooking.
A food safety certificate or equivalent – we want to keep everything safe, healthy, and tasty.
To be a good team player who can keep calm under pressure and loves the hustle of a busy kitchen.
Good understanding of food hygiene and safety (Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate is a bonus).
Flexibility: You’re great at thinking on your feet and adapting when the menu or schedule needs a quick change (because school days are never boring!).
Strong communication skills and a positive attitude. Kids, staff, and school life can be unpredictable, so a big smile and a laugh will go a long way!
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This Role Is Perfect If You‿
Want to make a real impact in a school community
Enjoy variety and hands-on working
Like the idea of work-life balance that includes school holidays
Are ready to bring your ideas, creativity, and energy to the table
Ready to Join the Olive Team?
If you’re ready to take the next step in your catering career and want to work somewhere that values people, flavour, and fun — we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and bring your passion to the plate!
