Catering Manager


Company:	Teaching Vacancies
Salary:	Not specified
Hours:	Part-time
Location:	Ingatestone, CM4 0QR
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	22 Sept 2026
Closing date:	6 Oct 2026

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Summary

What skills and experience we're looking for

We are looking to employ an experienced and friendly Catering Manager to join our busy kitchen team and prepare healthy, fresh home cooked food for our pupils during the school terms.

Hours: 22 hours / week Monday to Friday, term time plus September Inset for Safeguarding training.

You will be responsible for the day to day running of the kitchen, including all daily checks, stock rotation, ordering etc. along with monthly stocktakes. Managing a budget and completing stock takes is desirable but not essential as full training will be provided as part of our commitment to staff development.

The successful candidate should preferably be an experienced Catering Manager, trained to Level 3 Food Safety. Other candidates may be considered and training would be provided.

We are looking for a person who will be responsible for the operational efficiency of the catering service, planning and preparation of food to the required standard within the budget limitations as agreed with the school management. All methods of preparation and presentation must comply with current recognised catering standards and food safety legislation. High standards of personnel management, hygiene and health and safety is to be maintained.

The successful candidate will:

• Have ambition, enthusiasm and the desire to make a difference

• Have the ability to prepare, cook and serve for 120+ healthy school meals every day

• Be able to communicate with children

• Have good computer skills may be an advantage but not essential as training can be provided.

• To be able to lead and work constructively as part of a team

• Ability to prepare meals for children with allergies and intolerances

• Be able to create a menu that is attractive to our school community, understanding the importance of providing healthy, nourishing meals for our children

• Place orders

• Complete food safety records and monthly stock counts

• Have experience working in a similar environment, supervising staff and managing a budget

What the school offers its staff

• Supportive friendly staff and parents

• Opportunities for professional development

• Access to staff wellbeing support

Further details about the role

Applications will be considered as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.

We reserve the right to interview early applicants should a suitable candidate apply.

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) medical online and social media prohibition from teaching right to work satisfactory references suitability to work with children You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.

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