Job Description
School Chef
Full Time (All Year Round)
St Christopher’s School
Location: Wembley 71 Wembley Park Drive, Middlesex, HA9 8HE
Salary: Up to £35,000 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 7.30am–4.30pm
St Christopher’s School is an independent preparatory school for boys and girls aged 2–11. Since 1928, we have offered a warm, family centred environment where children grow in confidence, curiosity and compassion. As part of the Inspired Learning Group, we combine a close knit community feel with excellent opportunities for staff development.
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic School Chef to join our friendly team and play a key role in supporting the wellbeing of our pupils through healthy, appealing food.
Key Responsibilities:
• Prepare and cook nutritious, balanced meals and snacks for pupils and staff each day
• Plan and develop menus that are seasonal, child friendly and aligned with dietary and allergen requirements
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety and allergen legislation
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including stock control, ordering supplies, managing deliveries and minimising waste
• Maintain a clean, organised kitchen, ensuring all equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately
• Support special events, themed days and school celebrations with appropriate catering
• Build positive relationships with staff and pupils, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere of the school
• Work collaboratively with the wider school team and the Inspired Learning Group catering standards
Qualifications & Experience Desired:
• Professional chef training such as NVQ Level 2/3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent)
• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above) – Level 3 preferred
• Experience working in a school, nursery, or volume catering environment
• Strong understanding of allergen management, special diets and nutritional needs for children
• A good understanding of food hygiene and HACCP
• Proficient IT skills for ordering systems, completing surveys and basic administrative tasks
• Confident in menu planning, portion control and maintaining consistent quality
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively and maintain high standards under pressure
• A positive, flexible attitude and commitment to supporting the school’s values
By joining the outstanding team at St Christopher’s School and becoming part of the Inspired Learning Group, you will enjoy a range of benefits, including:
• Competitive Salary
• Annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays, increasing with service
• Pension scheme
• Refer a friend scheme up to £750
• Health cash plan covering 10 healthcare benefits and services such as optical, dental, dental accident, chiropody, therapy treatments and health club concession. Access to Doctor line from anywhere in the world.
• Employee Assistance Programme
To apply for the role pleased complete our online application form, this can be accessed at https://applicant.website/i/65A755/vacancy-info/0000001273
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Danni Joyce: danielle@inspiredlearninggroup.co.uk
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the date advertised. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis, as applications are received.
St Christopher’s School is totally committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, as all new staff will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance, identity checks, qualification checks and employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps within employment, two satisfactory references and registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).