Catering Manager

Job Description

Following the exciting installation of our own catering kitchen, a fantastic opportunity has arisen for us to appoint an experienced, ambitious and dedicated Catering Manager to join our team and prepare 50+ fresh, locally sourced, home-cooked meals for our pupils. The Catering Manager will work 22.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 10:00am to 2:30pm, 39 working weeks per annum, term-time plus training days.

There may also be an opportunity to expand the role by providing meals for our Wraparound Care provision as well as lead a Cooking Club for our KS2 pupils. We are a school who prides themselves on creating strong partnerships between children, teachers, parents and our local community.

A minimum of Level 3 Food Hygiene and Safety is required, however, we will support candidates to gain certification if necessary. Knowledge of budgets and menu planning would be an advantage although training will be available as part of our commitment to staff professional development.

Responsibilities

• Has the highest expectations for safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people.
• Oversee the provision of high-quality school meals.
• Ensure compliance with school catering standards and legislation.
• Ensure that the kitchen and dining area are kept clean and hygienic.
• Ensure that kitchen equipment is used safely and according to operating manuals.
• Plan varied and nutritious menus with the support of pupils and staff.
• Negotiate best-value contracts with authorised suppliers to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Manage food stocks to prevent shortages or excess supply, adhering to the catering budget.
• Cater to special dietary requirements and insure that allergy information is effectively communicated and labelled.
• Form positive relationships with our children and staff.
• Upholds high personal and professional standards.
• Has a sense of purpose and fun!

What We Offer

• The most wonderful children who are polite, enthusiastic and well-behaved.
• A friendly school community with a distinctive Christian ethos.
• An opportunity to cook in a brand new kitchen!
• A genuine commitment to strong professional development opportunities.
• A dedicated team who are professional, friendly, hard-working and welcoming.

Application Instructions

If you are an ambitious Catering Manager with the skills, passion and determination to join our team, please complete an electronic application form, together with a letter outlining your suitability for the role, by 9:00am on Friday 23rd January, 2026. Interviews will take place on Tuesday 27th January.

Additional Information

We actively promote equality of opportunity in employment to reflect the communities we serve. All disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria will be offered an interview. This school is committed to safeguarding including the Prevent agenda and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this. Giving false information is an offence and could result in the application being rejected and referred to the police. Any appointment made will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, right to work in the UK and qualifications check, satisfactory references and medical clearance. The ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice and information in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.