Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated, reliable, and enthusiastic Nursery Cook to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing fresh, nutritious, and appealing meals and snacks for the children, while maintaining excellent standards of food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and organisation.
The ideal candidate will have a genuine interest in preparing healthy food for young children and understand the importance of providing balanced, varied, and age-appropriate meals in a safe and welcoming nursery environment. This role offers an excellent opportunity to become an important part of the nursery team and contribute to the health, wellbeing, and enjoyment of the children in our care.
Duties
- Plan and prepare nutritious, balanced, and age-appropriate meals and snacks for the children.
- Prepare breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and other food requirements as required by the nursery.
- Follow menus and dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, and special dietary needs.
- Ensure all food is prepared, cooked, stored, and served in accordance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Maintain excellent standards of cleanliness and organisation throughout the kitchen and food preparation areas.
- Wash, dry, and put away dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
- Monitor food stock levels and assist with ordering ingredients and kitchen supplies as required.
- Check food deliveries and ensure ingredients are stored correctly and safely.
- Monitor food dates and minimise food waste wherever possible.
- Ensure kitchen equipment is used safely and kept clean and well maintained.
- Maintain accurate records relating to food temperatures, cleaning schedules, allergens, and other food safety requirements.
- Work closely with the nursery team to understand the children's individual dietary needs and preferences.
- Create meals and snacks that are varied, nutritious, and appealing to young children.
- Ensure appropriate portion sizes and presentation for the children.
- Follow all nursery policies and procedures relating to health, safety, hygiene, safeguarding, and food preparation.
- Report any maintenance issues, food safety concerns, or potential hazards to management promptly.
- Assist with maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for children, staff, and visitors.
Requirements
- Previous experience working as a cook, ideally within a nursery, school, childcare, or similar environment, is preferred but not essential.
- A relevant food hygiene qualification is desirable.
- Good understanding of Setting the Table, food hygiene, food safety, and safe food preparation practices.
- Experience preparing nutritious meals and snacks for young children is advantageous.
- Good knowledge of allergens and the importance of managing dietary requirements safely.
- A genuine interest in children's nutrition and providing healthy, varied meals.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to plan and prepare meals efficiently.
- Ability to work independently while also being a positive and collaborative member of the nursery team.
- Reliable, responsible, and professional approach to work.
- Ability to remain calm and organised in a busy nursery environment.
- A warm, positive attitude and genuine care for the wellbeing of young children.
- Flexibility to support the nursery's operational requirements as needed.
What We Offer
This is an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and professional nursery team where you will play an important role in supporting the children's health, wellbeing, and development through nutritious and enjoyable food.
We value team members who take pride in their work, care about what they prepare, and are committed to providing children with healthy, varied, and delicious meals in a safe and hygienic environment.
Pay: £12.71-£12.75 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Work Location: In person
