Overview
and Responsibilities
Residential/School Cook – Complex Diets
Location: Meldreth, Nr Royston, Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire border
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time
Hours: hours/week (Monday to Friday), weeks/year
Salary: £.–£./hour (£,.–£,./year), based on experience, Plus £1, Welcome Bonus*
Are you a passionate cook looking for a role that makes a real difference—without sacrificing your evenings and weekends?
Do you thrive in a caring environment where every meal supports the health and happiness of young people with complex needs?
Why Join Us?
At Aurora Meldreth Manor, our school and residential homes support children and young adults aged 6– with profound communication, cognitive, and physical challenges, including cerebral palsy, autism, brain injury, and degenerative conditions.
We’re part of The Aurora Group, a forward-thinking provider of education and care for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities. Here, your culinary skills become a vital part of a holistic care approach.
The Role: Catering Manager
This is more than a kitchen job—it’s a leadership opportunity to shape a warm, inclusive dining experience for our community. You’ll:
1. Lead a dedicated team (Senior Cook + Catering Assistant) in delivering nutritious, tailored meals
2. Collaborate with therapy, education, and care teams to design inclusive menus
3. Support themed events and emergency planning with creativity and care
4. Champion food safety, budget control, and a person-centred approach to mealtimes
5. Mentor staff, conduct reviews, and foster a positive, growth-oriented team culture
Please see our full job description below:
What You’ll Bring
6. We’re looking for someone who combines culinary expertise with compassion and leadership:
7. Experience managing catering in a care or education setting
8. Proven ability to lead teams and support staff development
9. Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and legislation (COSHH, Natasha’s Law)
10. Interest or experience in complex dietary needs (including dysphagia)
11. Confidence with Microsoft Office tools and documentation
12. Strong budget management and supplier coordination skills
13. A commitment to safeguarding and supporting vulnerable individuals
What You Get
14. A fulfilling role with no evening or weekend shifts
15. The chance to make a daily impact in a supportive, inclusive environment
16. Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
17. A workplace that values team spirit, creativity, and compassion
Please see our list of key company benefits below:
Ready to cook up something meaningful? Please complete our online application form or contact