Sous Chef – Weekends

Job description

Accountable to: Head of Boarding & Bursar

Location: Cranbrook School

Sous Chef for a co-educational grammar school in the heart of the glorious Wealden countryside. It is one of only a small number of state boarding schools in the UK. This position will be a senior position within the team responsible for providing all the catering for approximately 1000 students, 250 of which are boarders. In addition, catering is required for all support staff, teachers and for the local primary school.The catering is a 7-day operation catering for 3 services per day. The kitchen is also required to provide food for any special events, boarding house dinners and any other functions held at the school.

Key Responsibilities

Overseeing the preparation and service of all the food for the canteen and any other areas required for the weekend boarding community

Deputising and taking on the lead role in the Head Chef's absence

Ensuring kitchen staff are complying with all school policies

Following all government guidance regarding food in schools

Reviewing the menus seasonally alongside the Head Chef and keeping accurate inventory at all times

Being aware of the budget set by the Bursar and making savings where possible

Maintaining a very high standard of food quality in all areas

Ensuring accurate portion control is implemented for all menus

Ensuring all ordering is accurate and being properly rotated

Supporting the Head Chef in training all staff with new recipes and menus and ensuring the quality is maintained

Always ensuring a positive and creative atmosphere within the kitchen

Following all legislation pertaining to food safety and allergen awareness

Monitoring the HACCP system and ensuring all documentation is completed at the correct times

Ensuring compliance to all COSHH processes and signage

Managing a positive and open relationship with the Head Chef and ensuring that his directions are carried out by the kitchen team

Person Specification

3 years' experience as a sous chef in a quality kitchen.

NVS Level 1&2 or City & Guilds 7061/2.

Minimum Food Safety Level 3

Strong commitment to high standards and excellent communication skills.

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Preferably experience within 2 AA rosette kitchen or above

First Aid at Work

Terms and ConditionsThe post holder must comply with all school policies and attend mandatory training. This role is in a regulated activity, requiring safeguarding responsibilities. All staff will undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

Outline of Role Terms

Pay grade: Dependent on experience.

Regular hours: 20 hours per week (2x 10-hour shifts).

Term-time plus inset days with potential additional weeks during summer holidays.

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Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Hailsham

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

25-04-2026

Profession type

Bar Staff / Waiters and Waitresses

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English