Cook Manager – School Kitchen (Part‑time)

About the role

As a Cook Manager at Dedham Primary School, you will lead a small kitchen team to deliver fresh, nutritious meals for pupils during term time. The role combines hands‑on cooking with management of stock, budgets and compliance, all within a safe, child‑focused environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day kitchen operations and supervise staff.
• Prepare and serve fresh, balanced meals in line with school nutrition standards.
• Manage stock control, ordering and budget to ensure cost‑effective service.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene and health‑and‑safety compliance, including HACCP records and temperature checks.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Handle allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with school staff, students and the wider community.

Required profile

• Commitment to safeguarding children and young people.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Experience leading a kitchen team and motivating staff.
• Ability to work flexibly in a fast‑paced, term‑time environment.

Required skills

• Food Hygiene Level 2 certification.
• NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 (highly desirable).
• Knowledge of HACCP procedures.
• Allergen management and special dietary provision.

What we offer

• £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per annum) – 27.5 hours per week.
• No weekend or late‑night shifts; term‑time only with school holidays off.
• £1,000 joining bonus (terms apply) and referral rewards up to £500.
• Uniform provided and exclusive discounts via VIVUP.
• Enhanced DBS disclosure paid by HCL, plus wellbeing support through EAP and financial assistance.