Head School Cook

Head Cook (SEND Specialist School)
Location: Mitcham, Greater London 
Job Type: Full-time, Term-time only
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
Start Date: January 2025 

Teaching Personnel is working in partnership with a vibrant SEN school who are seeking an experienced Head Cook to join them in January. As Head Cook, you will create and prepare nutritious, delicious meals for students, staff and visitors. 

About the Role

As Head Cook, you will lead a talented kitchen team in preparing balanced, high-quality meals and maintaining excellent hygiene standards. This role also involves fostering positive relationships with students and staff and designing inclusive, nourishing menus for students with diverse needs.

The ideal candidate will:

• Oversee and support the kitchen team in daily operations.
• Plan and prepare nutritious, appealing meals that cater to varied dietary needs.
• Ensure that food hygiene regulations and nutritional standards are met consistently.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the school community, contributing to a supportive and inclusive environment.

Key Requirements:

• Experience: Proven experience in school kitchens, ideally in an SEND setting with autistic students or students with special needs.
• Communication Skills: Ability to engage with non-verbal students using Makaton, PECs, PODD, or similar communication methods.
• Behavioural Support: Experience working with students displaying challenging behaviours and a commitment to understanding the purpose behind behaviours.
• Flexibility: Comfortable working with students aged 4-11 and adapting to their individual needs.
• Creativity: Willingness to tailor meal options to suit unique dietary requirements and the ability to think creatively in menu planning.
• SEND Knowledge: Familiarity with autism support strategies such as TEACCH and Attention Autism is highly desirable.
• Certification: Level 3 qualification in Food Safety in Catering (or equivalent) is required.

If you’re passionate about creating a positive dining experience and ready to make a difference in a SEND school setting, we’d love to hear from you!