Head Chef
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/2245345/159699
- Location: Notting Hill
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours per week
- Salary: £34,000 - £36,000
- Closing date: 31 July 2026
About the role
Job Title
Head Chef
Location
Notting Hill Prep School, 1B Thorpe Close, London, W10 5XL
Salary
£34,000 - £36,000
Hours
40 Hours per week
Shift Pattern
Monday – Friday 06:30/07:30 - 15:30/16:00
Term Time
Yes
Please note, the earliest start date is end of August 2026
Plan Your Journey | Traveline W10 5XL
Join Notting Hill Prep and become part of a school where curiosity, creativity and a love of learning are at the heart of everything we do. As the first and only independent prep school in England to be awarded Advanced Thinking School status, we are committed to helping children develop the confidence, skills and habits of mind they need to thrive both in school and beyond.
Located in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill, our school offers the opportunity to work in one of London's most sought-after locations, within a welcoming and supportive community that values innovation, collaboration and excellence. As part of the Dukes Education family, we offer a rewarding opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues in a dynamic and ambitious school, where you can make a lasting contribution to the success and wellbeing of our pupils while developing your own career within a forward-thinking educational environment.
What You Will Do
- Manage team rotas, daily briefings, and effective communication across the kitchen team.
- Oversee ordering, delivery checks, stock control, and proper storage procedures.
- Ensure allergen information is accurate, accessible, and updated, with daily briefings to support safe service.
- Work collaboratively with other departments to deliver hospitality and special functions to a professional standard.
- Support the Catering Manager with recruitment, training, performance, and discipline procedures.
- Ensure staff work hygienically and always maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness.
- Liaise closely with the Catering Manager to plan and execute school events, including those outside normal hours.
- Apply knowledge of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and nutritional requirements for Pre‑Prep pupils to deliver age‑appropriate, engaging menus.
- Bring awareness of current food trends to keep menus fresh, modern, and appealing within a school setting.
- Demonstrate resilience during peak service times and uphold Sodexo and school Safeguarding standards.
What You Will Bring
- Proven experience as a Chef leading a busy, client‑facing kitchen.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, guide, and develop a kitchen team.
- Confidence using digital systems and basic IT for ordering, compliance, and communication.
- The ability to perform well under pressure while maintaining high standards.
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
- A positive, proactive attitude toward learning, self‑development, and professional growth.
- High levels of self‑motivation and resilience.
- Recognised culinary qualifications such as 706/2, NVQ Chef qualifications, or equivalent.
What We Offer
- A dynamic and supportive work environment
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Full training and protective uniform provided
- No unsociable hours and public holidays off—including Christmas!
- Unlimited access to mental health and wellbeing support
- Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support
- Discounts, cashback schemes, and financial benefits
- Career progression, learning opportunities, and apprenticeships
- Cycle to Work Scheme and volunteering opportunities
At Sodexo, we believe everyone deserves a place to belong. This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to be part of something bigger. If you're ready to lead with passion and cook with purpose, we want to hear from you!
Apply today and help us create a brighter future!
Note: Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding children. All roles require pre-employment screening, including DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and past employer checks.
Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applicants
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KEY BENEFITS
-
Advice and guidance
Get help with legal, financial, personal or work issues whenever you need it. -
Pension Plan
Save effectively for your future when you join the Sodexo Pension Plan. -
Wellbeing support
Unlimited access to online support for your mental health, 24/7. -
Generous leave
For holidays, care needs or major life events, we’ll help you rest and recharge. -
Discounts and savings
Enjoy great deals from leading retailers and use our Bike to Work scheme -
Virtual GP
24-hour access to video or phone consultations for you and your family.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At our company, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Roles at Sodexo are designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an environment that values equity and supports the growth of all employees, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Social Impact
Ever since we started, we’ve had a clear purpose – to do some good in our communities through helping people. Today, that purpose is still a huge part of who we are. And every one of our colleagues helps that happen.
We’re committed to volunteering our time, resources, skills and knowledge – more than 50% of colleagues contribute to thousands of volunteer hours every year. And our Charitable Foundation has now donated over £9 million to charities and good causes across the country.
Notting Hill, United Kingdom, W10 5XL
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