Posted: 8 June
The role
Advert
Lead Cook
Term Time Only
Location: Kent
Contract: 28.5 hours per week x 39 weeks (38 term time weeks and a further week equivalent spread through the academic year).
Working hours: 8.00am – 1.30pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8.00am – 2.30pm Wednesday
About the Role
We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Lead Cook to lead our school kitchen and provide nutritious, high‑quality meals for approximately 210 pupils.
You will take day‑to‑day responsibility for the safe, efficient and compliant operation of the school kitchen, supported by two kitchen assistants, and play a key role in promoting healthy eating in a positive primary school environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the daily operation of the school kitchen, ensuring meals are prepared and served safely, efficiently and to a high standardPlan and review termly menus in line with School Food Standards, pupil preferences and nutritional guidelinesManage food allergens, maintaining accurate records and ensuring safe preparation and service for pupils with dietary needsSupervise and support two kitchen assistants, allocating duties and maintaining high standards of food hygiene and cleanlinessOrder food and supplies, carry out stock control, and monitor portion control to support the catering budgetMaintain food safety documentation including temperature checks, cleaning records and allergen informationEnsure compliance with HACCP, COSHH, Health & Safety and food hygiene legislationLiaise with the School Business Manager, suppliers and Environmental Health Officers as requiredContribute to the wider life of the school through themed lunches and a weekly cooking activity with pupils (during school hours)Promote and safeguard the welfare of children in line with school safeguarding policiesWhat We Offer
A supportive school environment with an established kitchen teamThe opportunity to shape menus and promote healthy eatingTerm‑time workingTraining and professional development opportunitiesLocal Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
