Cook

Arden Early Learning; Whitsunday Regional; On-site; AUD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Arden Early Learning is seeking a passionate Chef/Cook to prepare nutritious daily meals for children. You will contribute to menu development and involve children in cooking activities to promote healthy eating.

The role emphasizes safety, knowledge of allergies, and compliance with Food Safety Programs, with support from the centre team and leadership.

Qualifications

• Experience creating interactive, nutritious meals for young children.
• Knowledge of allergies and intolerances for menu planning.
• Experience with Food Safety Programs and HACCP principles.

Skills

Cooking in childcare

Allergies knowledge

Food safety

Certifications

Childcare cook experience

WWCC & First Aid

Education

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

Job description

Do you have a passion for cooking delicious and nutritious meals? Do you love interacting with children?

Our centre strives to be a home away from home which translates through the kitchen, menus and recipes. We take the health and wellbeing of our children very seriously and understand that nutritious foods help form the foundations of learning.

About the role

We are seeking a creative and passionate Chef / Cook to create nutritious and delicious meals daily. Menu development and encouraging child participation in the cooking process are key aspects of the role, along with helping us to empower our families with knowledge on the ideal meal and food requirements for very young children.

Skills and experience

• Experience in developing creative and interactive cooking experiences
• Knowledge of allergies and food intolerances
• Experience in devising, reviewing ad adhering to Food Safety Program requirements.
• Current Food Handlers Certificate, Food Safety Supervisor Certificate or willing to obtain
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent)
• Recent experience in a Cook role (within a childcare setting),
• A current Working with Children Blue Card - mandatory. First Aid Certification, Child Protection Training and Anaphylaxis & Asthma Management Training.

What to expect

• Full support from our Centre Manager
• Full support from the owners as this is their family business & their life
• To join a team of passionate and positive early childhood professionals

Commitment to Child Safety, Wellbeing and Cultural Inclusion

Children’s safety, wellbeing, and voices are our highest priority. Arden Early Learning has zero tolerance for abuse or neglect and responds promptly to all concerns in line with legal and regulatory requirements. We are committed to a culturally safe, inclusive environment that respects and values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Our practices actively support and strengthen cultural safety for children, families, and communities. All team members are responsible for upholding child safety and contributing to a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment.