School Kitchen Manager: Lead Fresh Meals (Term-Time)

Company: Hertfordshire Catering Limited T/A HCL
Apply for the School Kitchen Manager: Lead Fresh Meals (Term-Time)
Location: London
Job Description:

Cook Manager based at Coppetts Wood Primary School – 27.5hpw Ideally live 5 miles from the school

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.

The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us:

At HCL, we’re more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a Cook Manager, you won’t just run a kitchen – you’ll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

Let’s talk about the role of a Cook Manager:

  • Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
  • Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
  • Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
  • Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
  • Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
  • Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
  • Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
  • Inspire and develop your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Cook Manager:

  • Committed to safeguarding children and young people
  • Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required)
  • NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
  • Passionate about delivering fresh, nutritious meals
  • An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
  • Well-organisation, with strong planning and time-management skills
  • Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
  • Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
  • Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
  • Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Why join us?

Joining Bonus:

£1000! (T&Cs apply)

Salary:

£14.99 per hour (£18,137 per annum)

Hours:

27.5 hours per week – No Weekends, No Late Nights

Schedule:

Term Time Only – Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards:

Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 – Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)

Succeed with us:

Career progression opportunities

Exclusive discounts:

via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Wellbeing matters:

Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding:

Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL – No Cost to You

If you’re passionate, driven and ready to grow, we’d love to hear from you. Take the first step and apply online – your Cook Manager career with HCL starts here.

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Posted: May 27th, 2026