School Cook Manager

About the role

HCL is looking for a dedicated Cook Manager to lead the kitchen at Markyate Village School and Nursery. You will be hands‑on in preparing fresh, nutritious meals while overseeing a small team during term‑time hours.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day kitchen operations and supervise staff.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, balanced meals for students and staff.
• Manage stock control, ordering, and budget within the allocated £13.76 hourly rate.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, portion control and allergen awareness.
• Maintain accurate records such as temperature checks and audit logs.
• Build positive relationships with school staff, pupils and the wider community.

Required profile

• Commitment to safeguarding children and young people.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (mandatory).
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 (highly desirable).
• Proven leadership experience in a catering or hospitality environment.
• Strong organisational and time‑management abilities.
• Ability to work flexibly in a fast‑paced, term‑time only schedule.

Required skills

• Food Hygiene Level 2
• NVQ Level 2
• NVQ Level 3
• HACCP knowledge
• Stock control and inventory management
• Budget management

What we offer

• Joining bonus of £1,000 (terms apply)
• £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per annum) – 27.5 hours/week, no weekends or late nights
• Term‑time only contract – enjoy all school holidays
• Uniform provided
• Referral reward up to £500
• Career progression and exclusive discount programmes
• Enhanced DBS disclosure paid by HCL