We work with a wide range of schools, colleges and education sites across Hertfordshire who need reliable and experienced Agency Chefs to support their catering teams.

If you’re looking for flexible weekday work, daytime hours and the opportunity to work regularly within school kitchens, Appetite4Work can help.

As an Agency School Chef with us, you’ll support education catering teams with both planned and short-notice cover. We work with multiple schools across the area, with opportunities ranging from individual shifts to ongoing Monday to Friday placements.

What you’ll be doing:

Preparing and cooking fresh meals for pupils and staff
Supporting school kitchen teams with breakfast and lunchtime services
Preparing food in line with site menus and dietary requirements
Following food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures
Supporting with general kitchen preparation and service
Maintaining a clean, organised and safe kitchen environment
Working alongside permanent school catering teams

Typical working hours:

The majority of our school shifts take place Monday to Friday during daytime hours, usually between approximately 07:00 and 16:00.

Exact hours vary depending on the individual school and placement.

Pay Rates (PAYE, weekly pay):

Chef de Partie (CDP): £16–£18 per hour
Sous Chef: £18–£19 per hour
Head Chef: £20+ per hour, depending on client
Holiday pay is accrued separately

Essential Requirements:

Previous professional chef experience
Level 2 Food Safety and Allergens Awareness dated within the last 2 years. Free training can be provided
Chef whites, apron, hat, own knives and suitable non-slip footwear
Right to work in the UK
Ability to reliably travel to school sites across Hertfordshire
Enhanced DBS suitable for working within education

DBS Requirements:

Due to the nature of these placements, you will need an Enhanced DBS issued through Appetite4Work or, where accepted, a suitable Enhanced DBS registered on the DBS Update Service.

If you do not currently have the required DBS but are suitable for our school work, Appetite4Work can arrange and cover the cost of a new Enhanced DBS for you. Please be aware that DBS applications can take several weeks to be processed.

Desirable:

Previous experience working within schools, education or contract catering
Driving licence and access to a vehicle, as some schools are difficult to reach by public transport
Regular Monday to Friday availability
Experience catering for large numbers
Confidence working with allergens and dietary requirements

Our education clients value consistency, so there are opportunities for reliable chefs to return to the same schools regularly and become a familiar part of their catering teams.

Why work with Appetite4Work as an Agency School Chef?

Zero-hour contract, giving you flexibility over when you work
Predominantly Monday to Friday daytime shifts
Opportunities for regular and ongoing school placements
Weekly pay every Friday
Holiday pay accrued separately
Dedicated consultant to support you
Easy-to-use app for viewing and booking shifts
Free access to required food hygiene training
Appetite4Work can cover the cost of your Enhanced DBS
If you’re an experienced chef looking for flexible weekday work within schools and education, we’d love to hear from you.

Agency School Chef – Hertfordshire – Flexible Hours – Weekly Pay