Chef

Busy Bees; Leeds; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Progression opportunities

Employee discounts

Job summary

Busy Bees Leeds, Colton Mill, is seeking a passionate Chef to join our nursery kitchen team. You will prepare healthy meals that support growth and development for children, ensure food safety, and collaborate with staff to provide a nurturing mealtime experience.

The role offers a rewarding environment within the UK''s leading nursery group, with emphasis on well-being, Bee Curious curriculum, and community involvement through BBC Children in Need.

Qualifications

• Experience in catering or kitchen operations in a childcare or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.
• Empathy and understanding for young children and families.

Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary needs of children.
• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Manage kitchen staff and coordinate with inspections and regulatory bodies.
• Maintain stock, order supplies and manage purchasing efficiently.

Skills

Catering experience

Food safety

Team leadership

Education

Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)

Job description

Role Overview

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

Are you passionate about cooking and providing nutritious meals for young children? As a Chef at Busy Bees, you'll be a key part of our kitchen team, preparing healthy meals that support children's growth and development. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a nurturing environment where you will contribute to the wellbeing of children while gaining valuable experience in catering within the early years sector.

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.

Our Charitable Commitment

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

At Busy Bees Leeds, Colton Mill, rated "Outstanding" by Ofsted, we provide a vibrant and engaging environment where every child can learn and thrive through a diverse range of exciting activities and fantastic learning resources. Our bright, welcoming rooms are designed to Spark creativity and laughter, offering endless opportunities for your child to explore their imagination. The fun continues outdoors in our spacious, enclosed garden, where children can enjoy fresh air and learn to take safe risks under the careful supervision of our dedicated staff. Conveniently located just off the M1 at Junction 46, our nursery is situated on Stile Hill Way, making it easily accessible with Leeds City Centre just a 20-minute drive away. For families using public transport, there is a bus stop nearby on Stile Hill Way, served by bus routes 19, 19A, and 22. Free parking is also available for added convenience, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

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 huge 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.

Role Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary needs.
• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Manage kitchen staff and collaborate with regulatory bodies during inspections.
• Maintain kitchen inventory and efficiently manage purchasing.

Required Qualifications

Ideal Candidate

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).
• Experience in catering or kitchen operations.
• Empathy and understanding - each child is unique.

If you're passionate about food and nutrition and maybe you have experience as Chef, an Assistant Chef, a Cook or managed a cafe