Job at a glance
School Head Chef - Uppingham We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to: Paid overtime ( 2-3k) Contributory pension scheme Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families Working 5 days out of 7 Head House Chef (Boarding House) - Uppingham School Job Title Head House Chef - Boarding House Reporting To Group Executive Chef, Contract Director, Deputy Contract Director Location Uppingham School, Rutland Job Purpose The Head House Chef is responsible for leading the catering operation within a designated boarding house, delivering exceptional food and hospitality to pupils and staff.
The role focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive dining environment that supports pupil wellbeing, promotes healthy eating habits, and enhances the boarding experience. The Head House Chef will have overall responsibility for menu planning, food production, financial performance, stock management, compliance, and team leadership, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, customer service, food safety, and operational excellence are consistently achieved.
As the culinary leader within the boarding house, the Head House Chef will work closely with House Staff, Catering Leadership, and the wider School community to deliver a catering provision that reflects the values and standards of Uppingham School. Key Responsibilities Leadership and Team Management Lead, motivate, and develop the boarding house catering team. Manage the day-to-day running of the boarding house kitchen and dining operation.
Ensure team members are appropriately trained, supported, and developed. Conduct regular performance conversations and support continuous professional development. Plan staffing requirements and rota arrangements to meet operational needs. Promote a positive, professional, and collaborative working culture. Act as the culinary lead and first point of contact for all catering matters within the boarding house.
Food Preparation and Service Plan, prepare, and oversee the delivery of breakfast, supper, weekend catering, and special event catering for boarding pupils and staff. Ensure all dietary requirements, allergies, medical needs, cultural preferences, and religious requirements are catered for safely and effectively. Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, flavour, and service.
Introduce seasonal menus and initiatives that encourage healthy eating and pupil engagement. Lead and support house events, themed dining experiences, open days, celebrations, and hospitality functions. Financial and Commercial Management Manage food purchasing and stock control within agreed budgets. Monitor food costs and take responsibility for achieving budgetary targets. Ensure effective stock rotation and minimise food waste through careful planning and forecasting.
Review consumption trends and adapt menus and purchasing accordingly. Ensure all purchasing activities comply with School and company procurement procedures. Seek opportunities to improve efficiency while maintaining food quality and service standards. Kitchen Operations Oversee all daily kitchen and food service operations within the boarding house. Monitor deliveries and ensure correct storage and handling of food products.
Maintain appropriate stock levels to support service requirements. Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and