Meal Preparation Assistant (Casual Temporary Role – Holiday Cover)
We are looking for a reliable and experienced Meal Preparation Assistant to support a small private nursery on a casual temporary basis for holiday cover.
The role involves preparing healthy lunches and snacks for children while maintaining high standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
Location: SE22 (East Dulwich area)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Responsibilities
Prepare healthy lunches and snacks for children.
Follow the nursery's menus and dietary requirements.
Maintain a clean, organised, and hygienic kitchen.
Wash kitchen equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas.
Monitor food stock and report items that need replenishing.
Follow all food hygiene, allergen, and health & safety procedures.
Ensure food is prepared, stored, and served safely.
Work independently and manage time effectively.
Requirements
Previous experience in meal preparation, catering, or a nursery/school kitchen is preferred.
A Food Hygiene Certificate is desirable.
A DBS check is required (or willingness to obtain one).
Good understanding of food hygiene and allergen awareness.
Ability to work independently and follow instructions.
Friendly, reliable, and professional with good communication skills.
Right to work in the United Kingdom.
Job Type
Part-time, Casual, Fixed-Term (Holiday Cover)
Experience
Meal preparation, catering, or kitchen experience: 1 year (preferred)
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Ability to commute/relocate:
- East Dulwich SE22: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):
- What is your postcode? Are you located near SE22?
- Approximately how long would it take you to travel to the workplace?
1. Less than 15 minutes
2. 15–30 minutes
3. 30–45 minutes
4. More than 45 minutes
- Are you happy to work on a casual temporary fixed-term contract for holiday cover?
- Would you be comfortable preparing simple children's meals without training or direct supervision?
- Are you comfortable following a set menu or recipe if one is provided?
- When would you be available to start?
- Please confirm you are available to work Monday to Friday, 10:00 am–2:00 pm.
- Have you previously worked in a nursery, school, or childcare setting?
Experience:
- Meal preparation: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
Licence/Certification:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person
