Catering Apprentice Level 2

Busy Bees Nurseries; St Albans; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 28 days holiday per year

50% childcare discount

Cycle to Work scheme

Workplace pension

Job summary

Busy Bees Nurseries in St Albans is offering a Catering Apprenticeship designed for individuals passionate about a career in catering. You will gain hands-on experience in food preparation and hygiene while working in a supportive nursery kitchen.

This role involves planning nutritious meals, supporting catering services, and maintaining high hygiene standards. Competitive salary and benefits include up to 28 days holiday and birthday off. Join us to start your rewarding career in catering!

Qualifications

• Be a resident in the UK for at least the last 3 consecutive years.
• Provide evidence of Maths and English achievements.
• Demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and preparing nutritious meals.
• Support high-quality catering services delivery.
• Help maintain cleanliness in kitchen and dining areas.
• Work proactively to complete apprenticeship requirements.
• Communicate regularly with your Line Manager.

Skills

Passion for catering

Ability to follow food safety standards

Effective communication

Education

GCSE Maths and English grade 3/D or above

Tools

Food Hygiene Level 2

Job description

Why Start a Catering Apprenticeship with Busy Bees?

Choosing a Catering Apprenticeship with Busy Bees means joining a warm, supportive environment where you can learn, grow, and build confidence as you begin your catering career.

As an Apprentice, You Will

• Work alongside experienced and encouraging catering professionals who will guide you in preparing nutritious, freshly made meals.
• Gain hands‑on experience in food preparation, hygiene, stock rotation, and safe kitchen practice.
• Receive tailored mentoring and regular support from your Development Coach.
• Build essential skills and confidence while working in a real nursery kitchen.
• Train in a supportive, nurturing environment within the UK’s leading nursery group, offering long‑term career potential.

You’ll Also Experience

• Our award‑winning Bee Curious curriculum - designed to spark imagination, confidence, and a love of learning in every child.
• A workplace culture where every team member feels valued and supported.
• Opportunities to get involved in our charity partnership with BBC Children in Need.

Busy Bees Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Ongoing training and career progression.
• Access to our Hive benefits and wellbeing platform - with discounts across a huge range of retailers.
• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays).
• Your birthday off — our gift to you!
• 50% childcare discount.
• Enhanced family leave and return‑to‑work bonus.
• Menopause support through Peppy.
• Financial guidance through Salary Finance.
• Employee Assistance Programme & Mental Health First Aiders.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Workplace pension with Cushon.
• Option for discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI).

Your Responsibilities And Expectations

• Assist in planning and preparing nutritious meals that meet dietary requirements and follow food safety standards.
• Support the delivery of high-quality catering services, ensuring a positive experience for all children and staff.
• Build effective working relationships with team members and contribute to a positive, supportive kitchen environment.
• Help maintain cleanliness and organisation across the kitchen and dining areas.
• Follow all food hygiene and safety protocols to safeguard children's and staff wellbeing.
• Work proactively toward completing your apprenticeship provided by Busy Bees Education and Training within the expected timeframe.
• Be proactive and eager to learn new skills within a busy kitchen setting.
• Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development and continually improving your practice.
• Communicate regularly with your Line Manager about tasks, progress, and learning within the kitchen.

Essential Criteria

• Be passionate about developing a career in catering.
• Be a resident in the UK for at least the 3 consecutive years (to meet funding eligibility).
• Be able to provide evidence of Maths and English achievements (GCSE Maths and English grade 3/D or above or Level 2 Functional Skills).

Desirable (but Not Essential)

• Any previous experience in catering or food preparation.
• A Level 2 qualification in Food Hygiene.

Apply Now

Start your future in Catering with a team that believes in your potential. Apply now and begin your Busy Bees Catering Apprenticeship journey! Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews will take place on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.