Chef Manager

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Hoe Valley School is:

• An oversubscribed secondary school that opened in September 2015 to serve the local community of South Woking
• Delivering innovative and exciting lessons to years 7-13
• Committed to ensuring our students leave us with excellent academic outcomes, the skills to be 'work-ready' and the traits of excellent global citizens
• Following the National Curriculum, where Maths and English are taught every day
• A Google School with ICT fully embedded in all curriculum areas
• Committed to learning which is relevant with links to the 'real world' of business, higher education and the local community
• In a state of the art, new School completed in September 2018 on Egley Road, Woking
• Committed to supporting our staff to have a good work / life balance by offering longer school holidays, bespoke CPD programmes, minimising paperwork and meetings, and ultimately by trusting our staff to deliver excellent outcomes

The Role

To lead and manage the school's catering service, delivering high-quality, nutritious meals that meet school food standards while ensuring efficient kitchen operations, food safety compliance, and excellent service for students and staff.

Role Information

Contract: Permanent. This role can be offered as full time or term time plus 2 weeks

Hours: Monday to Friday, hours as needed to fulfil role, nominally 6:45am to 2:45pm (occasional events may require flexibility)

Start date: From June 2026

Responsible to: Operations Manager and ultimately the Head Teacher

Our staff are offered a generous pension, access to cycle to work scheme, reduced gym membership at our neighbouring sports facilities and have access to convenient free parking. We also have additional holiday at the end of the Autumn and Summer terms to recognise and reward the commitment of our staff.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Kitchen & Food Production

• Plan, prepare, and deliver a varied, balanced menu in line with school food standards and nutritional guidelines
• Oversee daily food production, ensuring quality, consistency, and portion control
• Introduce new menu ideas that appeal to secondary school students
• Cater for special dietary requirements, allergies, and cultural preferences

Leadership & Staff Management

• Manage, train, and supervise kitchen, catering and front of house staff
• Organise staff rotas and ensure adequate cover during absences
• Promote a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment
• Conduct performance reviews and support staff development

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene regulations (e.g. HACCP)
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen environment
• Organise cleaning schedule including deep cleans
• Keep accurate records of temperature checks, cleaning schedules, and food storage
• Ensure compliance with health & safety policies and risk assessments

Budget & Stock Control

• Manage catering budgets effectively, ensuring cost control and minimal waste
• Order food supplies and manage relationships with suppliers
• Monitor stock levels and conduct regular inventory checks
• Maximise value while maintaining quality standards

Customer Service & Engagement

• Ensure a positive dining experience for students and staff
• Engage with students to gather feedback and improve menu offerings
• Support initiatives to promote healthy eating within the school

Administration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of meals served, stock usage, and financial performance
• Support compliance with school policies and inspections

The above list is not exhaustive and may be subject to amendment in due course in discussion with the relevant employee.

Application deadline 15th May

Interviews week commencing 18th May

The school reserves the right to close this vacancy early and/or amend advertised dates as required to secure the right appointment.

Safeguarding Statement:

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful appointments are subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced check. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.