Job Description
Head Chef
Full Time, Permanent (All Year Round)
Grange Park Preparatory School & Nursery
Location: Grange Park Preparatory School, N21
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday
Grange Park Preparatory School is a thriving independent school providing an exceptional education in a warm, nurturing and supportive environment. We are committed to ensuring every child is encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity and a love of learning. As part of the Inspired Learning Group, we combine a strong sense of community with excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression.
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Head 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 adhere to 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
• 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
• Positive, flexible attitude and commitment to supporting the school's values
Benefits
By joining the team at Grange Park Preparatory 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 – earn up to £750
• Health cash plan covering a range of healthcare benefits and services, including optical, dental, dental accident, chiropody, therapy treatments and health club concessions
• Access to Doctorline from anywhere in the world
• Employee Assistance Programme
How to Apply
To apply for the role, please complete our online application form: https://applicant.website/i/65A755/vacancy-info/0000001306
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 advertised closing date. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis as applications are received.
Safeguarding Statement
Grange Park Preparatory 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, including an exploration of any gaps in employment, two satisfactory references and registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).