frequently asked questions

Client FAQs

How do I get in touch?

Complete the online form
Email Leiths List
Telephone +44 (0)1225 722983
Fax +44 (0)1225 722985
By post to Leiths School - the address is shown at the base of this page.

What is the process for getting a cook?

Enquiries for cooks of all levels of experience are received. If you haven’t already completed the online registration form, you will be sent one by email, fax or post, whichever suits you. On receipt of a completed form, Leiths List will advertise the position by contacting cooks looking for this type of work, by advertising the position on our website and by placing a card on the jobs board at Leiths School. You will then be sent CVs of cooks who have expressed an interest who we feel are up to the job. Interviews follow and trial cooking sessions if appropriate.

If an engagement is made agency fees are payable according to the schedule of fees. If the position is suitable for a student currently on a course with us, there is no agency fee as you are kindly enabling them to gain valuable work experience. If the employment continues once the student has graduated, fees would then be charged.

How much will a cook cost?

This is generally a negotiable hourly/daily/weekly fee depending on the level of experience required. All cooks are self-employed so would look at the client requirements and supply a quote. If you have a particular budget in mind, we can search for candidates within that price range.

What happens if the cook doesn't work out?

This is very rare! However, fees for temporary placements are not refunded so where possible we would send a replacement. For permanent positions there is a schedule of refunds according to the length of time in the position.

If I want to use the cook again for another booking, do I have to pay again?

Yes you do! Contact the agency. Cooks are also requested to keep us in touch with regard to repeat bookings.

If the cook I want to hire needs to travel to the job who is responsible for travel expenses?

Depending on the nature of the job you will be charged for travel expenses, parking/congestion fees etc. Mileage will be charged at a pre-agreed rate. If plane or train tickets or a hire car are required these are generally arranged by the client. In some circumstances it may be easier for the cook to deal with this, in which case prompt reimbursement would be expected.

If I need the cook to arrive at the job having done the shopping or with dishes already prepared, is this possible?

Yes, this is generally not an issue – prompt reimbursement would be expected.

A member of my family has special dietary requirements can this be catered for?

Yes. Just supply a clear brief to the cook so that they can adapt the menu accordingly.

How do I know what level of experience I will require for the job I want to advertise?

A wide variety of skill/experience levels are available. The diploma course is divided into three terms. The first covers traditional English cooking: roasting, baking, pastry and bread, sauces, fish etc which enables the students to cook good quality family food. The second term develops these skills and includes ethnic cuisines whilst the final term focuses on advanced skills and restaurant style dishes and presentation. If you are looking for a more basic level of training there are A level/Gap Year students following a basic certificate course either at Leiths or as part of their A level studies at a variety of secondary schools throughout the country.

Will the cook be able to supply waiting staff and equipment hire?

This can certainly be discussed. Many cooks have access to butlers and waiting staff and will be able to organise china and glasses etc as an extra cost to the menu.

Will the cook need to use my kitchen for food preparation?

For one-off events the majority of the food preparation is done off-site. The dishes may well be finished off in your kitchen depending on the size and nature of the event. Practicalities can be discussed.

I am looking for a cook to cater for a dinner party for only a small number of people, is this possible?

We can find cooks who can cater for 2-50 people and have contacts with ex students who, having taken on kitchen units, are able to cope with much larger numbers.

How much notice do you need to be able to find me a cook?

If we have cooks in your area short notice may not be a problem, you might just need to be a bit flexible on the level of experience and costs.

What happens if I have booked a cook then need to cancel?

Agency fees are payable if the booking goes ahead. With regard to the cook, they will have their own terms and conditions so cancellation fees may well be due particularly in the case of short notice or where ingredients have been bought or preparation has already been done.

Cook FAQs

I am a cook looking for work, can I register with Leiths List even though I haven’t done a Leiths course?

Whilst the vast majority of cooks on the list are Leiths trained, we are very happy to hear from anyone who can supply a current CV, references and menu planning showing the style of food they like to cook together with the opportunity to meet in either London or Bath where possible.

What do I do if I am interested in a job on the Leiths List website?

Send us an email with the code number for the job(s). We can then give you some more information about the position. If you are in our system and we have a current CV for you on file it will be sent off to the client if your experience is appropriate for the position. If you are contacting us for the first time we will need a current CV, references and menu planning together ideally with an interview in London or Bath.

Do I pay Leiths List a fee if I get a job through the agency?

No. We charge the client a fee for supplying staff. If the client re-engages you in a similar or new capacity you will need to inform the agency. Failure to do so will mean you are not offered work in the future.

Who will pay me?

The agency does not employ anyone so you are responsible for your own terms and conditions of business which you should agree with the client before the engagement commences.

If I have agreed to do a job can I change my mind?

No. You have made a verbal commitment to undertake the work therefore you will be in breach of contract.

Do I need insurance?

Yes you do.

What happens if a client cancels a job?

You should have your cancellation terms as part of your terms and conditions of business.

Will I be paid for shopping or pre-preparation time?

Yes if you have agreed this with the client in advance. This should be part of your terms and conditions of business.

If I am using my own car on a job can I charge for petrol?

Yes you can. You must let the client know in advance what rate you will be charging (rates are available from, for example, the AA or RAC websites). If you are using your car for running errands/shopping for the client make them aware of your mileage so the end bill isn’t a shock.

Will I have to arranging travel for jobs abroad?

You might have to. Research the routes open to you and inform the client of costs. If you are required to purchase tickets or to hire cars, discuss and secure payment from the client.

Will I be paid for travelling days?

This should be discussed and agreed with the client.

Should I wear chefs whites whilst working?

The majority feel more comfortable wearing clean whites, however white shirt and black trousers with a clean apron would also be acceptable.

How do I get paid for shopping in advance of an engagement?

Agree in advance what is to be bought. Check with the client before making expensive purchases of, for example, meat, fish and alcohol. Agree whether payment will be on arrival or with the final invoice. Keep all receipts.