Chef Apprentice – the Cheesy Living Co. LTD – Leeds (LS8 2HU)

Overview

This Level 2 Commis Chef apprenticeship provides the opportunity to gain practical experience working in a busy professional kitchen while developing the skills needed to build a career in the food industry. The role focuses on preparing and cooking high-quality food, following recipes and portion sizes, maintaining food safety standards, and supporting the kitchen team during service.

Apprentices will work alongside experienced chefs and develop practical skills in ingredient preparation, cooking techniques, food presentation and the safe use of professional kitchen equipment. The role will involve preparing and cooking a wide range of ingredients and dishes, maintaining a clean and organised workstation, following food safety and allergen procedures, managing stock, rotating ingredients, reducing food waste, and supporting the wider kitchen team during busy service periods.

The apprenticeship is suited to someone who is passionate about food, reliable, punctual, friendly, hardworking and keen to learn from feedback. Alongside practical workplace experience, apprentices will complete the Level 2 Commis Chef qualification with Luminate Education Group, attending training at Printworks Campus every Wednesday. The role includes evening and weekend work, and a full-time permanent contract is likely upon successful completion.

About the Employer

The Cheesy Living Co. is a fun, independent food business passionate about great food, quality ingredients and creating an enjoyable experience for our customers.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and hardworking Chef Apprentice to join our Oakwood team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to build a career in professional kitchens while gaining practical experience and working towards a recognised Level 2 Chef qualification.

Training to be Delivered

• Develop practical food preparation skills, including selecting ingredients, weighing and measuring, using knives safely, portioning and preparing ingredients for service.
• Learn a wide range of professional cooking methods, including grilling, frying, sautéing, braising, stewing, baking, roasting, boiling and poaching.
• Develop skills in preparing and cooking different types of food, including meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, sauces, soups, pasta, rice, pastry, cakes and hot and cold desserts.
• Learn how to prepare dishes using alternative ingredients, including plant-based and gluten-free options, while considering seasonality, sustainability and reducing food waste.
• Develop skills in plating, garnishing and presenting dishes while maintaining portion control and achieving the required standards for flavour, texture and appearance.
• Learn about food safety, allergens, hygiene, temperature control, health and safety procedures and maintaining a clean and safe professional kitchen.
• Develop skills in stock control, food storage and rotation, checking deliveries and managing ingredients to maximise yield and minimise waste.
• Complete a nationally recognised Level 2 Commis Chef qualification alongside practical workplace experience.