Job Type: Full time Job Location: Chelmsford School Setting: Special School Contract Type: Contract REF: SENDIRECT/191627 Rate: £27,110 - £33,713 per annum Hours: Full time Start Date: January 2025 We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled School Catering Manager to join a dynamic secondary school in Chelmsford.
In this full-time role, you'll oversee all kitchen operations, from menu planning to food preparation and delivery, while ensuring high standards of hygiene, safety, and nutrition.
Working within a Special School Contract, you'll bring your passion for quality food service to a supportive environment designed for excellence.
This opportunity offers competitive pay, ongoing professional development, and a pathway for growth within a larger trust network.
The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, team-focused, and ready to make a meaningful impact.
Experience in catering management is preferred but not essential; we're searching for someone who brings leadership, a positive attitude, and resilience.
Key Responsibilities: Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency and quality in all meals served.
Manage food safety, hygiene, and health standards across all kitchen processes.
Oversee budgeting and stock control, maintaining high levels of quality and cost-efficiency.
Support and manage kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Plan and develop nutritious and varied menus tailored to students' needs.
Maintain accurate records for inspections and compliance with safety standards.
Engage with students and staff to promote healthy eating choices.
Qualifications and Experience: Previous experience in catering or kitchen management (preferred).
Knowledge of food hygiene and safety practices, including HACCP and COSHH standards.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Effective communication and time management abilities.
Flexibility and adaptability in a busy school environment.
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
About SENDirect SENDirect is an education recruitment business dedicated to connecting schools with highly skilled and compassionate staff.
We specialise in supporting the needs of students with SEND, providing schools with professionals who are committed to fostering inclusive learning environments.
At SENDirect, our mission is to ensure that students receive the support and care they need to succeed, and we are dedicated to placing candidates who share this vision.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
All applicants will undergo comprehensive vetting checks in accordance with our Safeguarding, Recruitment, and Vetting Policy.
For more details, please refer to our FAQ's and T&C's on our website.