Chelsea Hall School is an outstanding Independent Special School for students aged 4-11 with mild to moderate, complex learning needs. We are part of the Cavendish Group, a unique group of educational independent day and boarding schools. We work closely with the other schools in our group and believe in 'thinking differently’ and being as creative as possible in our teaching.
We are seeking to recruit a Chef to join our Kitchen team. You will be working closely with our teachers, therapists, teaching assistants and administration team.
- Working hours: from 6.00am to 2.30pm, 40 weeks per year.
- Salary: £25,000.00 - £32,000.00
- Start date: 24/08/2026
Responsibilities
- Plan, prepare and cook a variety of healthy and appealing meals in accordance with age-appropriate dietary requirements and SEN considerations (dairy, nut, sugar, gluten and strawberry free).
- Ensure all meals meet strict food hygiene and safety regulations.
- Maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment, including sweeping and mopping floors daily, wiping down surfaces and cleaning equipment.
- Be responsible for kitchen laundry, ensuring all tea towels, cloths and uniforms are kept clean and hygienic.
- Assist with clearing away lunch from the school hall, including sweeping and cleaning the floor and wiping down tables.
- Help set up the lunch area.
- Maintain the cleanliness of the staff room, including wiping down tables daily and ensuring the floor is kept clean.
- Maintain and organise the pantry.
- Order and liaise with food suppliers and manage stock control.
- Collect and organise food orders.
- Conduct a deep clean of the kitchen every half term, including degreasing floors, ovens and grills, and sanitizing all surfaces.
- Plan and prepare food for staff parties, and ensure the kitchen is deep cleaned prior to the holiday that follows.
- Plan, order and prepare food for parent events.
- Empty all bins and recycling from the kitchen and staff room as required.
- Undertake any additional responsibilities requested by the Headteacher.
- May be required to help with serving meals to pupils.
- Follow all health and safety procedures and attend all appropriate CPD.
- Contribute to maintaining a positive and welcoming environment for pupils and staff.
- Maintain all records for a safe kitchen.
Person Specification
- Qualified Chef or equivalent experience within a school or similar catering environment.
- A strong understanding of healthy eating and children’s dietary needs, with an ability to cater for SEN requirements.
- Excellent food hygiene and safety awareness.
- Experience of working in a fast-paced environment.
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A caring and patient nature with a genuine passion for working with children.
- Flexible and adaptable approach to work.
Pay: £25,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
