Assistant Chef - Early Years Kitchen Lead

Busy Bees Nurseries Ltd.; Southampton; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development

Hive benefits discounts

Up to 28 days holiday (incl bank)

Birthday off

25% childcare discount

Enhanced family leave

Salary Finance support

Employee Assistance Programme

Mental Health First Aiders

Cycle to Work scheme

Pension through Cushon

Private Medical Insurance

Job summary

Busy Bees Nurseries Ltd. is seeking an Assistant Chef to join our kitchen team, preparing nutritious meals that support young children’s growth and development.

You will work in a nurturing environment, helping deliver high-quality catering within the early years sector. You will assist in overseeing kitchen operations, maintaining food safety, and supporting stock management, while gaining valuable experience in childcare catering.

Qualifications

• Experience in leadership within early years settings.
• Strong mentoring and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to drive improvements and ensure compliance.

Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary requirements for children.
• Support the Chef in overseeing kitchen operations and maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.
• Ensure kitchen inventory is well-maintained and assist with ordering and stock management.
• Support meal preparation and assist in the cleaning and maintenance of kitchen equipment.

Skills

Leadership in early years

Mentoring

Problem solving

Improvement & compliance

Job description

Busy Bees Nurseries Ltd. is seeking an Assistant Chef to join our kitchen team, preparing nutritious meals that support young children’s growth and development.

You will work in a nurturing environment, helping deliver high-quality catering within the early years sector. You will assist in overseeing kitchen operations, maintaining food safety, and supporting stock management, while gaining valuable experience in childcare catering.