Catering Apprentice Level 2

Busy Bees Childcare; Peacehaven; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in the UK is looking for a passionate Level 2 Catering Apprentice to support kitchen operations and learn culinary skills. You will assist in meal preparation, maintain hygiene standards, and work in a supportive environment under the guidance of experienced chefs. This role provides opportunities for professional development and a chance to thrive in the catering industry.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Up to 28 days holiday

25% childcare discount

Professional development

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Must be enthusiastic about food and cater to dietary requirements.
• Ability to follow food safety and hygiene standards.
• Be proactive in developing skills within the kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and preparing nutritious meals.
• Deliver quality catering services ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Maintain cleanliness in kitchen and dining areas.

Skills

Teamwork

Food safety compliance

Eager to learn

Education

Level 2 Catering qualification or willingness to work towards it

Job description

Join Our Team at Busy Bees - Leading Nursery Group in the UK

Are you passionate about starting a rewarding career in the catering industry? If you're eager to learn, grow, and develop your skills while working in a dynamic and supportive environment, this catering assistant role is perfect for you. Whether you're looking to gain hands‑on experience or build on your existing knowledge, this position offers the opportunity to thrive and advance in your catering career.

About Us

Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK and more overseas. We are dedicated to giving every child the best start in life and are proud to have won awards for our workplace culture. At Busy Bees, we ensure that every member of our team feels heard, valued, and nurtured.

Why Work at Busy Bees?

We offer a supportive environment that empowers you to create engaging, educational spaces where children can thrive. As part of our team, you'll be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum, designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners. Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need, we offer fantastic opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children's lives.

About our Nursery

Busy Bees Finchley Gloucester House, rated Good by Ofsted, accommodates 90 children in a purpose‑built nursery featuring four well‑resourced, warm, and welcoming childcare rooms, all on one level. Each room is filled with fantastic age‑appropriate activities and resources, ensuring there is something for every child. Conveniently located on Woodside Lane on the ground floor of 150 Gloucester House, we also provide complimentary lunches for our children. Our spacious outdoor area encourages physical well‑being, complemented by weekly P.E., Zumba, and Yoga sessions, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for all our young learners.

Busy Bees Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Ongoing professional development and career progression
• Our 'Hive' benefits and wellbeing hub, with discounts across a huge range of retailers
• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Your birthday off – it's our gift to you!
• 25% childcare discount
• Enhanced family leave and return to work bonus
• Menopause support through Peppy
• Financial support through Salary Finance
• Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Easy access to your workplace pension through Cushon
• Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

But wait, there's more! You'll also enjoy access to our Benefits and Wellbeing platform, Hive – offering huge array of retail discounts helping your money to go further, along with a Wellbeing Hub featuring resources to support your physical and mental health. A Celebrating You section showcasing the ways we recognise and reward our valued team members. Plus, a dedicated Grow with Us area sharing the exciting development opportunities and training designed to support you to thrive and grow at Busy Bees.

Key Responsibilities and Expectations for the Level 2 Catering Apprentice

• Assist in planning and preparing nutritious meals that meet dietary requirements and adhere to food safety standards.
• Support the delivery of high‑quality catering services, ensuring a positive experience for all customers.
• Build effective relationships with team members and contribute to a positive kitchen environment.
• Help maintain cleanliness and organisation in the kitchen and dining areas.
• Follow food safety and hygiene protocols to ensure the well‑being of customers and staff.
• Work towards achieving the apprenticeship standards set by Busy Bees Education and Training, with the aim of completing your program within the agreed timeframe.
• Be proactive and eager to learn new skills within the kitchen setting.
• Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development and improvement.
• Communicate regularly with your line manager about tasks and progress within the kitchen.

As a Level 2 Catering Apprentice, you'll work alongside experienced culinary professionals who will mentor and support you throughout your apprenticeship. You will attend tailored Learning & Development courses that will provide you with essential knowledge and skills for your role. A Development Coach will visit you regularly at the nursery to assess your work, acknowledge your progress, and provide guidance to help you succeed in your apprenticeship.

Ready to embark on your catering journey? Apply now and be a part of our extraordinary team!