Carrfield Primary Academy is seeking a dedicated and passionate Catering Manager to lead our school kitchen and play a vital role in delivering high-quality, nutritious meals to our pupils.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced catering professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to making a positive impact on children’s wellbeing and school experience.

About the Role

As Catering Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the school kitchen, leading a small team to provide fresh, healthy meals that meet all required standards.

You will:

• Lead and work alongside your team to prepare fresh, high-quality food
• Deliver meals in line with a seasonal 3-week menu cycle, adapting menus in line with School Food Standards and allergen requirements
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness
• Take ownership of ordering food and supplies, checking deliveries and managing invoices
• Monitor food usage to minimise waste and make recommendations for improvements
• Promote school meals through events such as taster days, themed menus, and parent engagement activities
• Ensure all kitchen staff are trained, supported, and working in line with policies and procedures
• Manage staffing levels, including arranging cover where required

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who brings both experience and enthusiasm, along with a strong commitment to delivering an excellent catering service.

You will have:

• Experience in a similar catering or kitchen management role
• Proven ability to lead, support, and develop a team
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
• Excellent attention to detail and high standards of work
• A relevant Food Safety & Hygiene qualification
• Evidence of ongoing professional development

Why Join Us?

At Carrfield Primary Academy, you’ll be part of a supportive and values-driven team, with opportunities to develop your career within a wider trust.

We offer:

• Excellent CPD and development opportunities
• A strong, caring and collaborative team culture
• The chance to make a real difference to children’s daily experience
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• A comprehensive induction programme
• Networking opportunities across Astrea Academy Trust

If you’re joining from another school, academy or trust, we recognise continuous service — which may positively impact your entitlements, including annual leave and pay.

Interested in Applying?

We warmly welcome visits and informal discussions about the role.

Please contact:

• Sky Gray – 07391 401038
• Katja Steffensmeier – 07752 398195

Be sure to review the Applicant Brief for full details before applying.

Commitment to Safeguarding and EDI:

Astrea Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check. We value diversity and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure all candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities.

In line with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and the statutory Code of Practice, the Trust requires all public-facing post holders to demonstrate fluent English. Within a school setting, this applies to all roles that involve direct or indirect interaction with pupils, parents, or members of the public.