Chef role in Ashford with £31,230 salary and excellent benefits
Full-time role at a residential activity centre, 5 days out of 7, split shifts, no late evenings, live-in available if needed
We’re recruiting a Chef to join the catering team at a large residential outdoor activity centre set in the countryside near Ashford, Kent. The centre welcomes children and young people year-round for multi-day residential stays focused on outdoor adventures, teamwork and personal development.
From early breakfasts before activities to evening meals following full days outdoors, you’ll play an important role in preparing and serving nutritious, high-quality meals in a fun and purposeful environment. This is a full-time, permanent role offering structured split shifts, no late evenings, and long-term stability. It’s well suited to an experienced Chef or hands-on cook who enjoys variety, teamwork and cooking for large groups.
Why apply / What’s in it for you?
*Full-time position working 5 days out of 7 with planned split shifts
* No late evenings, supporting a healthier work-life balance
* Salary of £31,230 per year
* Generous holiday allowance, plus bank holidays and an extra day off for your birthday
* Option to purchase additional annual leave and take paid volunteering days
* Ongoing training, mentoring and clear career development pathways
* Opportunities to work across other UK or European locations
* 24/7 access to wellbeing and mental health support, including an Employee Assistance Programme
* Family-friendly policies and a contributory pension scheme
* Financial wellbeing tools allowing you to save or borrow directly from your salary
* Free or heavily discounted family breaks, plus discounts at over 800 retailers
* Live-in accommodation available, if needed
Key Responsibilities:
*Prepare and serve nutritious, well-balanced meals to a high standard for children, staff and visitors
* Cater for medical, dietary and allergen requirements with care and attention
* Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene, HACCP and health & safety standards
* Support the organisation and day-to-day running of the kitchen team
* Manage your own workload while contributing to continuous improvement
* Assist with wider centre duties within a busy outdoor residential activity environment near Ashford
What we’re looking for:
*Previous experience as a cook or Chef in a high-volume catering environment
* Strong knowledge of food hygiene, allergen control and dietary requirements
* Ability to stay organised and work calmly under pressure
* A flexible, team-focused approach to working split shifts
* Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety in Catering (desirable, not essential)
If you’re looking for your next Chef role in Ashford, offering stability, development and sociable hours within a residential activity-centre setting, please apply now.
Job Number ¦ INDCATERERING ¦ 935059
Location ¦ Ashford
Role ¦ Chef
Platinum Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.