Head of Kitchen - Primary Schools

2 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the catering service at William Lilley Infant & Nursery in Nottingham, ensuring the effective day-to-day operation of the kitchen and the delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff. The post holder will be responsible for maintaining excellent food hygiene and safety standards while providing strong leadership to the catering team.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook nutritious, high-quality meals for pupils and staff.
  
• Lead and supervise catering staff, allocating duties and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently.
  
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the school kitchen.
  
• Ensure all food is prepared, stored and served in accordance with food safety, hygiene and health and safety requirements.
  
• Maintain accurate food safety and kitchen records as required.
  
• Monitor stock levels and place food and supply orders within agreed procedures.
  
• Control stock effectively and minimise waste.
  
• Maintain a clean, safe and well-organised kitchen environment.
  
• Ensure kitchen equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately.
  
• Support the development of menus and ensure meals meet required nutritional and dietary standards.
  
• Ensure special dietary requirements and food allergies are appropriately managed.
  
• Promote high standards of cleanliness, food quality and customer service.
  
• Work collaboratively with school staff and the wider catering team.
  
• Identify and address operational issues promptly.
  
• Undertake any other reasonable duties consistent with the role.
  

Requirements

• Previous experience in a supervisory catering or kitchen role is essential.
  
• Experience of working within a catering, school, education or similar environment is desirable.
  
• Strong leadership and team-management skills.
  
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
  
• Good knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety requirements.
  
• Ability to maintain consistently high standards of food preparation and cleanliness.
  
• Ability to work independently and use initiative while also working effectively as part of a team.
  
• Reliable, responsible and committed to delivering high standards.
  
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a busy kitchen environment.
  
• Awareness of food allergies, dietary requirements and safe food handling.
  
• Food Hygiene qualification or equivalent would be advantageous.
  

Additional Information

• Location: NCC - William Lilley Infant & Nursery
  
• Hours per week: 25 hours
  
• Bi-weekly payments: Paid bi-weekly