Assistant Chef reference: R1207976

Assistant Chef / 2nd Chef Opportunity at Oakcroft House Care Home

Are you a passionate culinary professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of others? Oakcroft House Care Home, a highly-rated facility boasting a CQC rating of 'Good' and an exceptional Carehome.co.uk score of 9.7/10, is seeking a dedicated Assistant Chef / 2nd Chef to join their vibrant kitchen team. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine your love for food with a meaningful career in a supportive and caring environment.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Culinary Professionals:

• Meaningful Impact: As an Assistant Chef at Oakcroft House, you'll be directly contributing to the well-being and happiness of residents by crafting delicious, nutritious, and varied seasonal meals. Your culinary creations will be a cornerstone of their daily enjoyment and health.
• Supportive Environment: The role is situated within a CQC 'Good' rated care home, signifying a commitment to high standards of care. You'll be joining a team that fosters a strong sense of community and prioritizes resident satisfaction.
• Professional Development: This position offers valuable experience in a fresh food kitchen environment, with opportunities to hone your skills in menu planning, food preparation, team training, and adherence to crucial hygiene and safety standards like COSHH and HACCP.
• Attractive Compensation & Benefits: The salary range of £21,200 - £23,540 (dependent on experience) coupled with a £1,000 welcome bonus* makes this a financially appealing opportunity. Additionally, Bupa offers a comprehensive benefits package designed for employee well-being, including:
  • Viva Wellbeing Programme: Holistic support for mental, physical, financial, social, and environmental health.
  • My Healthcare: 24/7 access to health support, including remote GP appointments and mental health services.
  • Annual Healthcare Allowance: Redeemable against Bupa healthcare products.
  • Wagestream: Early access to up to 40% of earned wages.
  • Generous Holiday Entitlement: 28 days of holiday.
  • Sick Pay Scheme: Additional support for frontline teams.
  • Long Service Rewards: Recognition and benefits for your commitment.
  • Free Meals on Duty: Enjoy a complimentary meal during your shifts.
  • Interest-Free Travel Loan: For purchasing annual public transport season tickets.
  • Pension Plans: Access to Bupa pension schemes.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: Including parental leave.
  • Menopause Plan: Dedicated support for women's health.
  • Gym and Fitness Discounts: Savings on a variety of fitness facilities.
• Work-Life Balance: This is a permanent, full-time contract (30 hours per week) with a structured shift pattern (3 x 7.30 am - 6 pm, with alternate weekends).

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Passion for Person-Centred Care: This role thrives on an individual who genuinely cares about making residents feel at home and enjoys engaging with them. Sharing your love of food will be a rewarding aspect of the job.
• Culinary Expertise and Hygiene Focus: While a passion for cooking is essential, previous experience in a fresh food kitchen and possession of relevant hygiene certificates are vital. You will be expected to uphold high standards of food safety and quality.
• Innovative and Adaptable Approach: The role encourages putting forward new ideas to enhance the dining experience. An innovative mindset, coupled with the ability to adapt to dietary needs and preferences, will be highly valued.
• Team Collaboration and Leadership: You will be involved in training and managing the kitchen team. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for effective collaboration and mentoring.
• Understanding of Bupa's Mission: Bupa's purpose is to help people live longer, healthier, happier lives. Aligning with this mission and embodying their values of being brave, caring, and responsible is key.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Bupa champions diversity and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds. As a Disability Confident Employer, they are committed to offering fair opportunities and reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process.

This Assistant Chef position at Oakcroft House Care Home presents an exciting chance to contribute to a well-respected care setting while advancing your culinary career. If you are a driven and compassionate individual with a flair for food, this opportunity is well worth exploring.

*Please note: The welcome bonus is paid in the next available pay run after completing four weeks' service and is subject to tax and National Insurance deductions. This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the UK's Points Based Immigration System.