Sous Chef – Care Home Kitchen

About the role

We are seeking a warm, enthusiastic Sous Chef to join our award‑winning team at Rivermere Care Home in Sevenoaks. In this full‑time, permanent position you will support the Head Chef in delivering nutritious, high‑quality meals that enhance the wellbeing of our residents.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in planning, preparing and presenting balanced meals for residents.
• Prepare modified diets that are visually appealing and comply with IDDSI guidelines.
• Supervise and direct culinary staff, providing instruction and on‑the‑job training for basic food preparation.
• Ensure all food handling follows the highest hygiene standards and the Avery Food Safety Management System.
• Maintain kitchen inventory, control waste and operate within budgetary constraints.

Required profile

• Hold a relevant catering qualification such as City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 or NVQ (or equivalent).
• Minimum of one year practical experience in a catering or hospitality environment.
• Demonstrated compassion and commitment to delivering high‑quality culinary services for care‑home residents.
• Flexibility to cover a range of duties at short notice.

Required skills

• Food safety and hygiene practices.
• Knowledge of IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative) guidelines.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £17.
• Supportive, values‑driven workplace focused on respect, compassion and professional development.
• Opportunities for training and career progression within a leading UK care provider.