School Cook Manager – 27.5 hrs/week, Term Time

About the role

Join HCL as a School Cook Manager at Hillborough Junior School, leading a dedicated kitchen team to deliver fresh, nutritious meals for students. You will be hands‑on, shaping the culture and ensuring high standards of quality and safety every day.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage day‑to‑day kitchen operations.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• 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 (HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop the kitchen team.

Required profile

• Commitment to safeguarding children and young people.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required).
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 (highly desirable).
• Passion for delivering fresh, nutritious meals.
• Experienced leader with strong planning and time‑management skills.
• Confident in managing budgets, stock and kitchen operations.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens and school food standards.
• Proactive, flexible and able to work in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• Food Hygiene Level 2
• NVQ Level 2
• NVQ Level 3
• HACCP
• Budget management
• Stock control
• Allergen management
• Health & safety compliance

What we offer

• £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per annum) – 27.5 hrs/week.
• No weekends or late nights; term‑time only with school holidays off.
• Joining bonus of £1,000 (T&Cs apply).
• Uniform provided.
• Referral bonus up to £500 (T&Cs apply).
• Career progression opportunities.
• Discounts via VIVUP on supermarkets, cinema, retail and more.
• Wellbeing support through EAP and financial assistance.
• Enhanced DBS paid by HCL at no cost to you.