Back to search
Location: Essex, SS12 0PW
School Type: SEN School (Ages 418)
Hours: 39 hours per week (7:30am 3:00pm)
Salary: £21,822.50 per annum
Contract Type: Term-time
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Chef Manager to lead the catering service at a specialist SEN school in Essex, supporting children and young people aged 418. The role involves managing a high-quality, nutritious, and safe food service tailored to pupils with special educational needs, including specific dietary, medical, and sensory requirements.
The kitchen operates a pre-order system serving approximately 130 meals per day, supported by 2 General Assistants (GAs).
Key ResponsibilitiesPlan, prepare, and deliver nutritious, balanced meals appropriate for SEN pupils
Manage daily kitchen operations, ensuring meals are delivered on time and to a high standard
Lead, train, and supervise 2 General Assistants, promoting teamwork and efficiency
Manage food ordering, stock control, and budgeting to meet cost targets
Ensure strict compliance with food safety, health & safety, and hygiene regulations (HACCP)
Cater for special diets, allergies, cultural, and medical requirements with care and accuracy
Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organisation within the kitchen
Build positive working relationships with school staff, pupils, and the catering provider
Complete all required administration, including pre-order management, reports, and compliance records
Essential:
Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Senior Chef (ideally in education or SEN settings)
Strong understanding of food safety, allergens, and special dietary needs
Ability to manage and motivate a small catering team
Excellent organisational and communication skills
Level 2 Food Safety Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
Desirable:
Experience working in SEN, primary, or education catering
NVQ Level 2/3 in Professional Cookery or equivalent
First Aid and allergen training
Monday to Friday, 7:30am 3:00pm
Term-time only, offering excellent worklife balance
Competitive salary of £21,822.50 per annum
Training and ongoing support provided by Innovate
Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to pupils wellbeing
