School Chef - Independent School (South West London)

Location: South West London
Pay Range: £25,000 £28,000 per annum (pro rata, term-time only)
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: 36 hours per week, term time

ANZUK Education is supporting an independent school in South West London to recruit a dedicated and experienced School Chef on a permanent, term-time basis. This role plays a key part in promoting pupil wellbeing by delivering nutritious, high-quality meals in a safe and welcoming school environment.

About Our Partner

We are working with a welcoming independent school that places strong emphasis on pupil wellbeing, healthy lifestyles, and high standards across all aspects of school life. Catering is viewed as an integral part of the school day, supporting pupils health, happiness, and routine through balanced and inclusive meal provision.

The Role School Chef

You will take ownership of the school kitchen, delivering daily meal provision that meets nutritional guidelines and caters to a diverse school community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning, preparing, and serving daily meals that meet nutritional standards for children
• Ensuring meals are balanced, appealing, and appropriate for pupils and staff
• Catering for a wide range of dietary requirements, including allergies, medical needs, vegetarian, halal, and kosher diets
• Managing day-to-day kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and service
• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety at all times
• Monitoring food storage, stock levels, and deliveries, minimising waste where possible
• Keeping accurate food safety, temperature, and cleaning records
• Training, supervising, and supporting kitchen assistants
• Supporting school events and special functions involving catering
• Communicating effectively with school staff regarding menus and dietary needs

Role Requirements Ideal Candidate Will:

• Have proven experience working in a kitchen or catering environment
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of food hygiene, health, and safety standards
• Be organised, reliable, and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Have a positive, proactive approach to providing high-quality service
• Be able to work school hours and early mornings as required

Desirable:

• Previous experience working in a school or similar setting
• Food safety certification (training can be provided if required)

Why Work with ANZUK Education

• Competitive salary aligned with experience
• Term-time working hours supporting work life balance
• Dedicated consultant support focused on long-term role matching
• Opportunity to work in a supportive and values-led school environment
• A role where you can make a meaningful contribution to children s daily wellbeing

About ANZUK Education

ANZUK Education is dedicated to creating exceptional experiences in education. Our mission is to inspire learning, support schools, and provide educators with fair, transparent, and flexible employment opportunities. While we may no longer be in the classroom ourselves, we remain committed to making a lasting impact on the education community by connecting outstanding teachers and support staff with schools that share their values.

Pay rates depend on experience, role type, umbrella or PAYE rate selection. ANZUK Education is committed to a policy of equal opportunities. We respect and value cultural and religious diversity and will not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, religion, culture or disability. Each individual will be assessed on merit alone.