School Cook Jobs in London WC2 | Immediate Start & Flexible Shifts

We are partnering with a vibrant and inclusive primary school in the London WC2 area to find a reliable and passionate School Cook. This role is central to the school's community, providing nutritious, balanced, and appealing meals to pupils and staff. You will be part of a small, friendly kitchen team working in a modern, well-equipped facility. The school prides itself on high standards of food hygiene and a menu that promotes healthy eating, with many ingredients sourced locally.

As a specialist recruitment agency for London, Staffing Service connects talented catering professionals with rewarding roles in education, healthcare, and corporate hospitality. We understand the unique demands of a school kitchen environment and seek candidates who are not only skilled cooks but also patient, organised, and genuinely care about contributing to children's wellbeing. For insights into how we match the right candidate to the right role, explore our guide on Candidate Screening Strategies for 2026.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

As the School Cook, your day will be varied and fast-paced, focusing on the safe and efficient production of high-quality meals. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Meal Preparation & Cooking: Preparing, cooking, and presenting a daily menu of hot and cold meals for students and staff, adhering to planned recipes, portion sizes, and nutritional guidelines.
• Kitchen & Food Safety: Maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all food preparation and storage areas. Strictly adhering to HACCP principles, completing daily temperature checks, and ensuring full compliance with Food Safety Regulations.
• Stock & Inventory Management: Assisting with ordering supplies, checking deliveries, and managing stock rotation to minimise waste and control costs effectively.
• Team Collaboration: Working collaboratively with other kitchen assistants and the Catering Manager to ensure a smooth, efficient, and positive service during busy lunch periods.
• Special Dietary Requirements: Preparing meals for pupils with specific allergies, intolerances, or cultural/religious dietary needs with utmost care and attention.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensuring all kitchen equipment is used correctly, reporting any faults immediately, and participating in basic cleaning and maintenance routines.

Essential Skills & Experience Required

To be successful in this School Cook position, you will need a blend of practical skills and personal attributes. We are looking for:

• Proven Cooking Experience: Significant experience working as a Cook or Chef, preferably within an education setting, care home, or large-scale catering environment. Experience with bulk cooking is essential.
• Food Hygiene Certification: A valid Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate is mandatory. A Level 3 certificate would be a distinct advantage.
• Organisation & Time Management: The ability to work efficiently under pressure, prioritise tasks, and ensure meals are ready for service on time, every time.
• Team Player Attitude: A cooperative, flexible, and positive approach. You must be able to take direction from the Catering Manager and also work independently when required.
• Passion for Food & Nutrition: A genuine interest in creating healthy, tasty food for children and an understanding of basic nutrition.
• Enhanced DBS Check: Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check (which we can process for you) as you will be working in a school environment.