Apprentice Commis Chef

What will the apprentice be doing?

Under the direction of the Executive Head Chef and the Head Chef, you will:

• Learn and develop new skills on a daily basis, all of which will contribute to the qualification. 
• Work with the Section Chefs to prepare, cook and present a range of dishes to a high standard.
• Work to and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
• Work and gain experience on all sections of the kitchen including the pastry section. 
• Provide excellent, efficient service whilst working to tight deadlines.
• Help ensure that the kitchen area, equipment and storage areas are kept clean and tidy at all times.
• Liaise effectively with other staff in the kitchen team, Front of House, external service providers and staff from other departments.

You don't need any experience as we can teach you everything. If you have a love of food, and are willing to learn, we would love to meet you and show you what it takes to become a vital team member in any kitchen. Alongside your training, you will take on a full-time role in the kitchen under the supervision of passionate chefs. Not only will you gain a Level Two Commis Chef Apprenticeship, you will work with the kitchen team learning, preparing, cooking and presenting high quality food, and supporting the running of our kitchen. 

What your apprenticeship includes:

• A mixture of face to face and virtual catch ups every 4 - 6 weeks
• A mixture of on and off the job training, including workshops and webinars
• Regular reviews with your Line Manager and Apprentice Professional Trainer
• Feedback sessions to discuss your progress
• Functional Skills in English and Maths (if you don't already have GCSE or equivalents)

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

• Commis Chef Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard.
• Functional Skills in Maths and English, if required.
• You will receive in-house training which will include: Food Safety Training, Health and Safety training to minimise occupational risks, Manual Handling Training, COSHH Training and Food Allergies Training.

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, further opportunities may be available to you within the College.

The experience and skills gained should prepare you for future progression within the industry.

Annual Salary

Real Living Wage - currently £24,029.78 per annum

Working Week

You will work the shift pattern of the established kitchen team, including early, late, spilt shifts and weekend working. Exact shifts to be confirmed.

Total hours per week: 36.5

Expected Duration

15 months 

Intended start date: February/March 2025

Apprenticeship Level

Intermediate
Level 2 (GCSE)

Desired skills and personal qualities

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Presentation skills
• Team working

Qualifications

• GCSE or equivalent English (Grade Grade 3/D) desirable
• GCSE or equivalent Mathematics (Grade Grade 3/D) desirable

How to apply

Completed forms must arrive by the closing date (Friday 31 January 2025, 12 noon).

Applications may be sent by e-mail to jobs@christs.cam.ac.uk  or by post addressed to Thorunn Byrne, Head of HR, Christ’s College, St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge CB2 3BU.

Application Form