Apprentice Chef

Job purpose: Kitchen Support

• Assist in the preparation, cooking, and plating of dishes across different kitchen sections.

• Follow recipes and instructions given by senior chefs to ensure consistency and quality.

• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, safety, and cleanliness at all times.

• Ensure workstations, utensils, and equipment are kept clean, sanitized, and organized.

• Assist in stock control, rotation, and proper storage of ingredients.

• Support senior chefs during busy service periods by preparing mise en place and handling basic tasks.

• Learn and develop culinary skills by rotating through different sections of the kitchen.

• Report any issues with ingredients, equipment, or safety to supervisors.

• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented kitchen environment.

• To ensure the storeroom is tidy and well organised.

• To work within specific Sops (Standards of Procedures) set by the Head Chef.

• To manage the cleanliness of the hot food section, including the cookers and refrigeration.

Managing Relationships

• To provide constant clear and direct communication to all staff.

• Develop and maintain relationships with all departments within the company to ensure there is a good flow of communication and understanding of customer expectations to ensure that service meets expectations.

• Act as an ambassador for the company at all times.

• Fully understand the many facets of the business and structure in order to value different requirements and act with diplomacy to achieve the best possible outcome.

• To be flexible in your approach so that you can help out with other departments when help is needed.

Health and Safety Management

• Advise on safety aspects in the use of equipment and systems of work.

• To be aware of all health and safety guidelines and to work within these guidelines

• Report any incidents/accidents to management

What will I learn? Core Cooking Skills

You’ll build the foundations of professional cookery, including:

• Knife skills and food preparation

• Cooking methods (roasting, grilling, frying, steaming, braising)

• Stocks, sauces, soups, and gravies

• Meat, fish, and vegetable preparation

• Pastry and desserts

• Portioning and presentation

Kitchen Organisation

You’ll learn how a professional kitchen runs:

• Mise en place (prep and station setup)

• Time management during service

• Working different sections (garnish, grill, pastry, larder)

• Cleaning and closing procedures

• Following recipes consistently

Food Safety & Hygiene

A major part of UK chef apprenticeships includes:

• Food hygiene regulations

• Cross-contamination prevention

• Temperature control

• Allergen awareness

• HACCP procedures

• Health & safety in kitchens

Teamwork & Communication

Professional kitchens rely heavily on communication:

• Working under pressure

• Communicating during service

• Taking instruction from senior chefs

• Supporting the brigade

• Customer awareness

What qualifications or qualities are required?

• Some experience in a professional kitchen or relevant culinary training (preferred).

• Basic knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety.

• Strong willingness to learn and take direction from senior chefs.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• Good organizational and time-management skills.

• Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, and holidays as required.