Kitchen Lead/Head Cook - Term Time

Steephill Independent School, Fawkham

• Ref:KCC886-6024-23S
• Posted:08/07/2026
• Pay:£30,000 FTE
• Start Date:01/09/2026
• App Close Date:01/08/2026 at 15:00
• Interviews:TBA

Advert

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a school community where children are at the heart of everything we do.

At Steephill, you will find:

• Wonderful children who are enthusiastic, polite and engaged
• A warm and supportive staff team who work collaboratively and prioritise the wellbeing and pastoral care of every child
• A welcoming and engaged family community who value partnership
• A school with strong values and high aspirations for every child
• A peaceful school site in a rural setting

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations

• Lead and manage the daily operation of the school kitchen.
• Prepare, cook, and serve nutritious meals in accordance with school standards and dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served on time and to a high standard.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment at all times.

Menu Planning

• Develop and implement varied, healthy, and cost-effective menus that meet nutritional guidelines for school-aged children.
• Plan seasonal menus and special event catering as required.
• Accommodate dietary, allergen, cultural, and medical requirements of pupils and staff.
• Seek opportunities to introduce new dishes and improve meal offerings.

Ordering and Stock Management

• Order food, beverages, and kitchen supplies in line with budgetary requirements.
• Monitor stock levels and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Ensure efficient stock rotation and minimise food waste.
• Liaise with suppliers to secure quality products and value for money.
• Receive and check deliveries, ensuring products meet quality and safety standards.

Food Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all relevant food hygiene, health and safety, and environmental health regulations.
• Maintain food safety management systems, records, and documentation.
• Monitor allergen management procedures and ensure staff awareness.
• Participate in inspections and audits as required.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and support kitchen staff where applicable.
• Allocate duties and monitor performance to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment.

Budget Management

• Work within agreed catering budgets.
• Monitor food costs and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working in a commercial, educational, or large-scale catering environment
• Experience of menu planning and food ordering
• Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and allergen management
• Food Safety/Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities
• Good communication and interpersonal skills

Desirable

• Supervisory or team leadership experience
• Experience working within a school or educational setting
• Knowledge of school food standards and nutritional guidelines
• Relevant catering or culinary qualification

Working Conditions

• Term-time working with additional days as required
• Daily hours 8am-4pm
• Frequent standing, lifting, and manual handling associated with kitchen duties

Information about the school

Steephill School is a coeducational independent day school, for pupils aged from three to eleven years old. It is situated in the beautiful Fawkham Valley area between Dartford and Gravesend in a quiet lane overlooking the thirteenth century St Mary’s Church.    

The school was founded in 1935 by Miss Eileen Bignold, who established its excellent reputation for high academic standards. In 1990, the school became a charitable trust administered by a Board of Governors.     

Our small classes (maximum 16) bring out the best in young children who receive all the help and encouragement they need from our qualified, experienced teachers. Each child benefits from the individual attention necessary to achieve his or her full potential. 

As a small school the staff, parents and children all know each other and this contributes to our happy, family atmosphere.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Gail Brimsted
• Address:Off Castle Hill, Fawkham, Kent, DA3 7BG
• Telephone: 01474 702107
• Email: secretary@steephill.co.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Job Description