Chef

Busy Bees; Wrenthorpe; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent nursery group in the UK is seeking a dedicated Chef to join their team at the Wrenthorpe location. You will be responsible for preparing healthy, nutritious meals tailored to children's dietary needs and maintaining strict food safety standards. The ideal candidate has a Food Hygiene Certificate and previous experience in catering or kitchen management. Join us to make a positive impact on children's health while enjoying a supportive work environment and numerous benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work scheme

Up to 28 days holiday

Discounted Private Medical Insurance

25% childcare discount

Qualifications

• Proven experience in catering or kitchen operations.
• Ability to maintain kitchen staff and oversee operations.

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.

Skills

Food Preparation

Team Management

Food Safety Compliance

Empathy

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

Wakefield is a purpose-built nursery located in a tranquil business park, rated "Good" by Ofsted with a capacity of 112 children. The nursery features four spacious base rooms, each equipped with its own generously sized outdoor area, promoting free exploration and play between indoor and outdoor spaces. Conveniently situated just off Junction 41 of the M1 and near Junction 29 of the M62, it offers easy access for commuters. Additionally, there are nearby bus stops on Paragon Avenue for those using public transport, and the facility provides free parking.

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)

Additionally, you will have access to our Benefits and Wellbeing platform, Hive, with a wide array of retail discounts, a Wellbeing Hub, and development opportunities through the Grow with Us program.

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

• 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 you have experience as a Chef, an Assistant Chef, a Cook or have managed a cafe, apply now!