THE ROLE

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• To assist with the Nutritionist and Chefs in planning termly menus that are nutritionally balanced, varied and reflect the wide range of cultures in the school community (to cover morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack).

• To take direction from the Head Chef when providing attractive meals on a daily basis in sufficient quantities to satisfy the appetites of the children.

• To assist in researching from magazines, books and the internet new items that can be suggested for the new menus.

• To help with stock control – ensuring at all times adequate supplies and that packaged and tinned produce is used in date order.

• To assist in ordering:

- dairy produce daily

- vegetables twice weekly

- general groceries at the beginning of each month (except when changing menus)

- plates, cutlery, napkins, paper bags etc. when necessary

• To assist in maintaining high standards of hygiene in the kitchen at all times:

- food stored appropriately (particularly in fridge)

- all utensils and dishes to be clean

- surfaces cleaned and wiped down regularly

- to wear the full chef’s uniform

- hair to be tied up or covered by a hair net at all times

- to wash and scrub hands before preparing any food

- to wear gloves when making pastry / sandwiches etc.

• To be prepared for Public Health Inspections at any time.

• To assist in checking fridge, freezer and water temperatures and keep accurate records up to date and ready for inspection. Checks to be conducted twice daily: 14°C - 18°C.

• To assist in carrying out probe temperature checks on all dairy produce and keep accurate records up to date and ready for inspection.

• To carry out probe food temperature checks daily before serving any hot foods. Temperature check to be 69°C and above.

• To assist with calibrating temperature probe monthly – checks to be done by insertion into cold water to measure 0°C. Second check to be done by insertion into boiling water to measure 100°C and above.

• To assist with laundry of own uniforms, kitchen linens etc.

• To assist in liaising with Medical Carer to ensure that all children’s allergies are known and appropriate measures put in place, to avoid allergic reactions with food.

• Dress and act in an appropriate manner that reflects their professionalism.

• To be aware of and adhere to all school policies and procedures.

• To help out when other chefs are unavailable.

• To assist with making lunches and snacks for school trips.

Qualities

• The ability to adapt quickly to changes, is flexible and uses initiative

• To have a positive attitude with the development of the relationships between parents, children and other members of staff.

• To be able to collaborate with others and take direction where necessary

• Ability to work under pressure

• Well-developed organisational skills

Personal Specification

Previous experience of working in an educational/catering environment is not required but candidates must be able to demonstrate a genuine interest and passion for the education and welfare of children.

Special Conditions of Service

This job description indicates only the main duties and responsibilities of the post. During the course of duties, you may be asked to carry out other tasks that may be reasonably assigned to you.

Equal Opportunity

The post holder will be expected to undertake all duties in the context of and in compliance with the school’s equal opportunities policies.