Lead School Chef

Lead the Kitchen in a Large, Thriving Brent School

SANZA Teaching Agency is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a large and well-established primary school in Brent seeking an experienced and confident School Lead Chef for an immediate start.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take full ownership of a busy school kitchen within a vibrant, high-enrolment setting. The successful candidate will play a vital role in delivering nutritious, high-quality meals to pupils each day.

Salary available up to £18 per hour, dependent on experience.

About the School

This is a large, inclusive and high-performing Brent primary school with:

• A substantial pupil roll and busy kitchen operation
• Strong leadership and clear operational systems
• A positive staff culture and supportive senior leadership team
• Excellent facilities and a well-equipped kitchen
• A strong focus on pupil wellbeing, including high standards of school meals

The kitchen is central to the daily life of the school, and the Lead Chef is a respected and valued member of staff.

The Role

You will:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day running of the school kitchen
• Plan and prepare healthy, balanced meals in line with school food standards
• Manage stock control, ordering and supplier relationships
• Oversee kitchen hygiene, food safety and compliance
• Supervise and support kitchen staff
• Ensure meals are delivered efficiently and on time

Working hours are 7:00am - 3:00pm, providing structure and excellent work-life balance.

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience working in school catering (essential)
• Experience leading or supervising within a kitchen environment
• Strong understanding of food hygiene and safety regulations
• Relevant food safety qualifications (Level 2 minimum; Level 3 desirable)
• Ability to manage volume catering in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills

This role requires someone confident, proactive and able to take full responsibility for a large-scale school catering operation.

Salary & Benefits

• ASAP start
• Up to £18 per hour (dependent on experience)
• 7:00am - 3:00pm working hours
• Term-time position
• Supportive and professional school environment
• Stable, long-term opportunity

Why Work with SANZA?

SANZA Teaching Agency works closely with primary schools across Brent and wider London. When you apply through us, you receive:

• A dedicated consultant supporting you throughout the process
• Clear communication and quick turnaround
• Honest guidance and transparent pay information
• Access to long-term and permanent opportunities

Interested?

If you are an experienced School Lead Chef with a strong background in school catering and are available for an immediate start, please contact Paige Ferro at SANZA Teaching Agency today.