Apprentice Chef

Job overview

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Apprentice Chef to join our Catering Team within Dorset Healthcare and develop a rewarding career within NHS settings. This is a developmental apprenticeship role where you will work towards the full responsibilities outlined in the job description while completing a professional chef qualification.

Based in partnership with Coastland College, the apprenticeship includes one day per week attendance at college (Weymouth) alongside practical workplace experience across multiple NHS sites. Applicants must therefore be able to travel independently as part of the programme.

Working under the guidance of experienced chefs and managers, you will support the smooth day-to-day running of busy healthcare kitchens, preparing high-quality meals for patients, staff and visitors in line with NHS National Standards for Healthcare Food and Drink.

Please note visa sponsorship for this role is unfortunately not available. Ensure you hold valid right to work in the UK and will not require sponsorship if successful.

Main duties of the job

This varied role will give you hands-on experience in:

• Food preparation and cooking, including specialist dietary requirements
• Maintaining food safety and hygiene standards
• Stock control and reducing food waste
• Supporting menu planning and service improvement
• Working collaboratively within a fast-paced healthcare environment
• Supervising and supporting junior team members where appropriate

We are looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about food and catering
• Eager to learn and develop professionally
• Organised, reliable and able to work as part of a team
• Flexible and committed to delivering excellent customer service

This is an excellent opportunity to gain recognised qualifications, valuable workplace experience and build a long-term career within NHS catering services.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For the main duties and responsibilities for this role please read the attached job description and person specification.  When completing your application please ensure your supporting statement reflects the criteria set out in these documents by showing how your experience and skills apply to this post.

We understand that using AI can be a useful and supportive tool when completing your application.  However, we have also seen an increase in the over-reliance of AI tools which is negatively impacting applications as they remove candidate’s individuality, and it becomes much harder to get a sense of who you are and your authentic experience.  If you do use AI, it should be used to enhance your application and not to create your supporting statement in its entirety.  If we suspect you have used AI to create your supporting statement and this does not match your experience, we may withdraw your application.

As part of our vision to have a skilled, diverse and caring workforce, Dorset HealthCare is supporting people getting into work by offering an employability service. This includes help with application writing, interview skills and other employment support. If you would like or know of anyone who would value this support please do contact [email protected]