Chef - Bank
About this role
Job Title: Chef – Bank Opportunities
Client Location: Stoneham Grove Care Home, Stoneham Farm, Reading, RG31 5UG
Agency: Supportive Bridge Staffing
Pay Rate: £20.67 per hour
Hours: Flexible / Casual (Bank Cover – Day Shifts)
High Bank Rates (£20.67/hr). Fresh Seasonal Menus. Great Work-Life Balance.
At Supportive Bridge Staffing, we specialize in connecting exceptional culinary talent with premier healthcare and hospitality providers across the UK. On behalf of our client, Barchester Healthcare, we are currently recruiting a dedicated Bank Chef to join the catering team at Stoneham Grove Care Home in Reading.
If you are a qualified chef seeking a high-paying, flexible role that lets you deliver hotel/restaurant-standard dishes without split shifts or long weeks, this casual bank position offers complete schedule control combined with culinary satisfaction.
About the Role
As a Bank Chef, you will step in during peak periods, sickness, or annual leave cover to work alongside the catering team, preparing fresh, wholesome, and tailored meals for residents.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Fresh Food Preparation: Preparing and cooking high-quality, seasonal, and nutritious dishes tailored to residents' dietary needs and preferences.
Kitchen Leadership: Assisting or stepping in to manage kitchen operations in the Head Chef’s absence, including stock control and kitchen audits.
Hygiene & Compliance: Maintaining strict adherence to food safety, HACCP guidelines, and kitchen hygiene standards.
Team Collaboration: Helping to lead, inspire, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver person-centred hospitality in a warm, welcoming environment.
About You
We are seeking a warm, quality-driven chef with strong professional cookery credentials and a passion for fresh ingredients.
Key Requirements & Qualifications:
Qualifications: City & Guilds / NVQ / SVQ (or equivalent professional cookery qualification).
Culinary & Safety Expertise: Proven experience cooking with fresh seasonal produce, sound knowledge of nutrition, and a firm grasp of HACCP protocols.
Leadership & Personality: Experience guiding kitchen staff, managing stock control, and engaging warmly with residents.
What We Offer
Premium Bank Rate: Exceptional pay rate of £20.67 per hour.
Work-Life Balance: Casual day shifts without split shifts or unpredictable late nights.
Recognition & Growth: Opportunities to showcase your talents at the annual Barchester Hospitality Awards and access free ongoing learning & development.
Perks & Rewards: Access to holiday, retail, and leisure discounts, plus an unlimited 'Refer a Friend' bonus scheme.