When you join the team at Heriot’s, you become part of our community, where the contribution of every individual is important and valued.  The Heriot’s motto, to “distribute chearfullie”, is at the heart of school - distributing of kindness, of support and of generosity remains as live today as it was in 1628 when George Heriot founded the school.

Our most recent staff survey reported that 97% of employees at Heriot’s feel motivated and happy to work here and we aim to provide a friendly, welcoming, and supportive environment for all of our people.  This aim is reflected in the package we offer which, for Support Staff, in addition to basic salary, includes:

• Enhanced holiday allowance (38 days minimum)
• Generous pension scheme (up to 11% employer contribution with 5% employee contribution)
• Enhanced sick pay, maternity and paternity pay
• Family friendly policies (Including Personal Emergency Leave Days)
• Annual review and opportunities for training and continued professional development
• Travel to work schemes
• School Fee Remission (non-contractual benefit)
• Employee Assistance programme, including 24/7 counselling helpline and high street, supermarket, and general retail discounts
• Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community

We aim to attract and retain a diverse group of talented people, who are committed to upholding the school’s ethos. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

George Heriot's school are seeking a Head Chef to lead the catering team, food production, kitchen and front of house management and direct communication with staff at the senior and junior schools. 

The role is also responsible for the Refectory, and the senior S6 cafe. The Head Chef is to be responsible to ensure all catering services are delivered timely and to the highest professional standards in line with the ethos and standards of George Heriot’s School. 

The Head Chef reports directly to our Catering and Hospitality Management and will ensure that catering is delivered to an exceptional standard. The successful candidate will be motivated by a passion for quality and great service delivery and hold positive attitude towards young people, their parents and teachers. 

Please see attached Job Description for full duties. 

Previous experience in hospitality essential, preferably within schools but not essential 

Experience of all areas of Food delivery, including Events 

Experience of team management at Head of Department level  

Experience of collaborative working across numerous departments and external stakeholders 

A strong understanding, of cost management and budgets  

Experience of all aspects of People Management, including recruitment, performance management and training • 

Good IT skills 

Hard-working; a good role model; a key team member 

Qualifications  required Catering NVQ level 1 & 2 or City & Guilds 706 - 1 & 2 or equivalent Food Hygiene Certificate Level 3 Allergen Awareness Level 2

Additional Information
Heriot’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 and the successful candidates will be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme.

Please note that parking is not available on our campus

George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity number SC011463

Downloads

• Head Chef 2026 PDF Document