Head Chef - Education - Winchester - £31,921pa Term Time

Head Chef - Education Site (Winchester)

Salary: £31,921 - £36,497 (FTE)

Hours: 37 per week

Weeks per year: 39

Contract: Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead a dynamic catering operation at a thriving educational site in Winchester. This is a key leadership position, reporting to the Catering Manager, with full responsibility for the kitchen and day-to-day catering services.

You will oversee the preparation of high-quality meals for approximately 5,000 day students, provide dedicated service for 73 boarding students, and support a growing in-house hospitality offering.

What We're Looking For

Our ideal candidate will be:

• A Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with proven experience in high-volume catering (ideally 2,000+ meals daily).
• A strong, inspirational leader with a track record of managing and developing large kitchen teams (15-20 staff).
• Skilled in delivering fresh, high-quality food with creativity and flair.
• Knowledgeable in HACCP, food safety, and health & safety regulations.
• Financially astute, with experience in menu costing, budgeting, and waste reduction.
• Highly organised, calm under pressure, and an excellent communicator.
• Empathetic and genuinely interested in catering for young people.

Why Join Us?

We offer a stimulating environment where your culinary vision can thrive, alongside a competitive salary and benefits package. Our workplace culture is inclusive, supportive, and values the wellbeing of staff.

Benefits include:

• Special leave for significant occasions
• Staff wellbeing initiatives and support groups
• Inclusive activities such as staff choir and sports
• No expectation to answer emails out of hours
• Complimentary lunch at all lunchtime meetings
• Seasonal treats and end-of-term celebrations
• Bike and computer loan schemes

Ready to lead a vibrant catering team and make a real impact?

Apply today and bring your passion for food to an environment that values creativity, quality, and community.

Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.