Chef - The Downs Preparatory School

At Palmer & Howells, we recognise that food is more than what you eat, and we also recognise that our staff are more than what’s on the surface!

As you have probably guessed; our Chefs are passionate about food! They’re particularly aligned with creative dishes; highly nutritious and offering energy even away from the dinner table. Working collaboratively with our team is integral to the success of this role, as is communication and an exploratory nature, keen to work with high quality and fresh ingredients. 

This is a ‘never stand still’ kind of job. There’s lots of preparation work to do around busy service times – always a task to complete and more skill to learn. 

Working within a school kitchen offers fantastic work-life balance but it’s important that you have an adaptable outlook as the work required can be varied alongside the core tasks of creative innovation and delicious dishes! 

In this role, you can expect the following:

• Creating delicious meals that offer optimal taste and nutritious benefit
• Working collaboratively with the wider team to deliver an efficient and well organised service
• Adhere to all compliance including H&S, Food Hygiene and giving meticulous attention to allergens
• Work to be a ‘brand ambassador’ and ‘role model’ for other staff members

What you’ll need:

• Kitchen/Catering experience with a focus on creative offerings and fresh, nutritious ingredients
• A Food Safety Level 2 certificate would be ideal – though training will be given
• A strong understand of kitchen equipment and best practice within food environments
• A personable and outgoing approach to put a smile on everyone’s face and deliver fantastic experiences

Why join us:

Firstly, fantastic hours. You’ll work Monday to Friday during school term time meaning more time with friends and family and no working at Christmas! 

This role is:

• 22.5 hours per week – with no late nights
• Working 38 weeks per year based around term time – what could you do with all that time off?
• £12 - £13 per hour

You’ll also benefit from:

• Working for a fast growing, ambitious company. There is no ceiling here in terms of where you can take your career
• A dedicated L&D team to support you in developing your skills including apprenticeships and training courses that are available for everyone.