Salary: £23,161 – £25,355 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Term Time Only
Location: London
Role Overview
We are seeking a passionate and experienced School Chef / Cook to provide nutritious, balanced, and appealing meals for pupils and staff within a specialist educational setting.
This role is key in promoting healthy eating habits and supporting pupils who may have complex relationships with food. The successful candidate will act as a positive role model, helping to break down barriers around food while ensuring meals are both enjoyable and nourishing.
You will be supported by a part-time Kitchen Assistant and will also contribute to the wider educational experience by helping pupils develop basic cooking skills, independence, and potential interest in catering careers.
Key Responsibilities
* Plan, prepare, and deliver healthy, balanced meals for pupils and staff
* Develop varied menus that meet nutritional standards and dietary requirements
* Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
* Manage food preparation in line with allergen awareness and specific dietary needs
* Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
* Supervise and work collaboratively with a Kitchen Assistant
* Support educational staff in providing opportunities for pupils to engage in cooking and food preparation activities
* Encourage pupils to develop independence, life skills, and confidence through food-related learning
* Monitor stock levels and contribute to ordering supplies as required
About the Setting
This role is based within a specialist provision supporting neurodiverse children and young people aged 7–19 with a range of additional needs, including autism and social, emotional, and mental health needs.
Many pupils may have experienced disrupted education and require a nurturing, structured, and supportive environment. The setting focuses on helping pupils rebuild confidence, develop independence, and re-engage positively with learning.
The primary provision follows a nurture-based approach, supporting pupils’ emotional development alongside their academic progress in a safe and supportive environment.
Essential Requirements
* Proven experience in catering within a school, education, or similar environment
* Up-to-date knowledge of Food Safety, Kitchen Hygiene, and Health & Safety regulations
* Experience in planning and delivering balanced, varied menus
* Strong understanding of food allergens and dietary requirements
* Excellent standards of cleanliness and food hygiene
* Ability to support and share knowledge with others, including young people
* A patient, flexible, and positive approach
Key Skills & Attributes
* Passion for promoting healthy eating and wellbeing
* Ability to engage and inspire young people
* Strong organisational and time management skills
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Commitment to supporting vulnerable learners
* A proactive and adaptable approach
Additional Information
* Term-time only position
* Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people is essential
Closing Date: 25 August 2024
Interview Date: 05 September 2024
About us:
SENCare Recruitment provides Special Educational Needs (SEN) professionals for SEN schools, mainstream schools, residential care homes and 1-1 home support through local authorities, across the UK. We can offer short/long term placements on a temporary and permanent basis for specialist SEN teachers, teaching assistants, support workers, social workers, VI/HI practitioners and mid-day meal supervisors.
If you feel this would be the ideal vacancy for you, then please apply below or contact our team direct and ask for John Stokes @ SENCare Recruitment.
SENCare Recruitment is fully committed to the safety and welfare of children, and by applying for this vacancy, you are consenting to SENCare Recruitment Ltd storing your personal details in line with the new GDPR regulations
Salary description
£23161.00 - £25355.00 per year