Cook Manager – School Kitchen Leader

About the role

The Cook Manager will lead the kitchen team at Civitas Academy Primary School, ensuring safe, nutritious meals are prepared and served each day. This role combines hands‑on cooking with team leadership and a strong focus on safeguarding and food quality.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage day‑to‑day kitchen operations for Civitas Academy Primary School.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals in line with school food standards.
• Oversee stock control, ordering and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and the wider school community.
• Maintain accurate records such as HACCP logs, temperature checks and audit reports.

Required profile

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required); NVQ Level 2/3 desirable.
• Proven leadership experience in a kitchen environment.
• Strong organisational, planning and time‑management abilities.
• Confident in managing budgets, stock and kitchen operations.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens and school food standards.

Required skills

• Food safety compliance
• Allergen management

What we offer

• £14.68 per hour (£19,381 per annum) – 30 hours per week, term‑time only.
• No weekend or late‑night shifts.
• Joining bonus of £1,000 (terms apply).
• Uniform provided.
• Referral reward up to £500.
• Career progression opportunities within HCL.
• Discounts on supermarkets, cinemas, retail and family activities via VIVUP.
• Wellbeing support through EAP and financial assistance.
• Enhanced DBS disclosure paid by HCL.