Commis Chef; Apprentice

Job Reference: HCC
623010

Salary Range: £24,225 - £24,415 pro‑rata, per annum

Work Location: The Cedar Room, Royal Victoria Country Park, Southampton

Hours per week:

Contract Type: Temporary - 12 months

Closing Date: 8 February 2026

Interview Date: w/c 9 February 2026

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Commis Chef (Apprentice) to join our Catering Team at Royal Victoria Country Park.

Do you have a passion for food and customer service, and looking for a new challenge? If so, when can you start?

We are seeking a Commis Chef (Apprentice) to join us at our café and restaurant in Royal Victoria Country Park. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in this modern, light‑filled space serving good mood food and the best sourdough pizzas this side of the Solent. Think hearty breakfasts, vibrant salads and freshly made food using locally sourced ingredients.

As a Commis Chef Apprentice, you will learn and develop the fundamental skills required to work in a professional kitchen. You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of dishes while gaining hands‑on experience and completing your apprenticeship qualification.

We are seeking a candidate who demonstrates the following:

• Passion for food and hospitality.
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Good time management and organisational skills.
• Team player with a positive attitude.

This role is part‑time (hours) covering a seven‑day week and includes weekend working. Mainly daytime hours, some evening working will be required to support with weddings and events. Sunday and Bank Holiday working are paid at an enhanced rate. Additional seasonal overtime hours will also be available.

As a Commis Chef at the beautiful Royal Victoria Country Park, you’ll be part of a friendly, supportive team dedicated to creating great food and memorable experiences for every visitor. In this hands‑on role, you’ll develop your skills, contribute your ideas, and play an important part in the smooth running of a vibrant kitchen.

• Help create a warm, welcoming experience for every guest through excellent food and attentive service.
• Communicate confidently and professionally with both visitors and colleagues, helping to build a positive, enjoyable working atmosphere.
• Tackle guest queries with a can‑do attitude and, if needed, upscale issues.
• Bring enthusiasm, punctuality and pride to everything you do, including training and development opportunities.

• Work closely with the F&B Manager, Kitchen Manager, Second Chef and wider team, supporting them to deliver great food and smooth service every day.
• Learn from experienced colleagues and contribute to a collaborative, supportive kitchen culture.

• Carry out essential food safety and health & safety checks and keep accurate, up‑to‑date records.
• Receive stock deliveries, rotate produce correctly and follow all quality control processes.
• Help to maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment by following cleaning schedules and reporting any issues.
• Keep allergen information accurate and accessible, and complete all required training.

• Prepare and serve food and drink to specification, showcasing attention to detail and strong hygiene standards.
• Support front‑of‑house tasks such as customer transactions and general cleaning when needed.
• Help maintain healthy stock levels through ordering and rotation, following Countryside Service policies.
• Report any operational concerns promptly to management.

• Follow menu guidelines to ensure consistent portions and great value for our customers.
• Record daily wastage to support cost control and reduce waste.

We’re looking for someone energetic, enthusiastic and ready to grow within a busy kitchen environment. This role is hands‑on and fast‑paced, so you’ll thrive if you enjoy staying active and working as part of a supportive team.

You’ll bring:

• Physical stamina – you’ll be comfortable with lifting, bending, twisting and standing for extended periods during busy…