At The Coconut Tree, we’re passionate about great food, teamwork, and helping people grow. This role is ideal for someone at the start of their culinary journey who wants to learn on the job, gain a nationally recognised qualification, and build confidence in a professional kitchen.
As an Apprentice Production Chef, you’ll be supported to develop practical kitchen skills while working as part of a friendly, fast-paced team. Over 15 months, you’ll work towards a Production Chef Apprenticeship Level 2, combining hands-on experience with structured training.
With guidance and support from experienced chefs, you’ll learn how to:
● Prepare food safely and efficiently, including washing, peeling, chopping, cooking, and plating.
● Keep the kitchen clean, organised, and safe, including cleaning equipment, tools, floors, and work areas.
● Help receive and store food deliveries, learning how to organise stock correctly.
● Follow recipes accurately to ensure consistent quality, flavour, and presentation.
● Support the team in catering for special dietary requirements.
● Learn and follow food safety and hygiene standards, including recording temperatures and updating kitchen records.
● Reduce food waste and prevent cross-contamination.
● Work closely with front-of-house colleagues to support smooth service and respond to customer feedback.
● Take part in training and development opportunities to build your skills and confidence.
● Support and, over time, help guide more junior team members as you grow in the role.
● Carry out other reasonable kitchen duties as part of a collaborative team environment.
Training & Development
● You’ll complete a Production Chef Apprenticeship Level 2 alongside your day-to-day role.
● Full training will be provided — no need to know everything on day one.
● You’ll learn about food safety, kitchen operations, teamwork, and professional standards.
Things to consider
● This role includes evening and weekend work, as part of a rotating schedule.
● Applicants should be based locally or able to travel reliably to the restaurant.
If you’re looking for a supportive place to start your career in hospitality, learn new skills, and grow with a company that values people as much as food, we’d love to hear from you.
Desired Skills
• Pleasant, polite manner and a neat and clean appearance. • A flexible approach to working hours and understanding the dynamic nature of the industry. • Good teamwork is crucial. • The ability to thrive in a fast-paced setting is key. Our team members need to handle the pace with composure and efficiency. • Fluency in English is a requirement, and we expect all team members to present themselves professionally. Clear communication is fundamental to our success.
Personal qualities
Quick thinking, good with customers and problem solving, able to work in a fast-paced environment.
Qualifications required
GCSEs or functional skills level 2 in English & Maths.
Future prospects
Yes. We’re passionate about developing our team, and anyone who performs well will have the opportunity to grow with us and progress to the next levels in the kitchen. From learning new skills to taking on more responsibility, we offer clear pathways for career development within our fast-growing restaurant group.
Training to be delivered
Production Chef Apprenticeship L2 including Functional Skills in Maths and English
Employer
Coconut Tree - Cheltenham
Visit employer websiteAddress
59 St Paul’s Road
Gloucestershire
Cheltenham
GL50 4JA
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