Nursery Chef

The-Learning-Experience-UK; Greater London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary up to £38,750 per year

22 days + bank holidays

Childcare discount

Life insurance

AVIVA pension

PerkBox

Birthday leave

Staff events

Job summary

The Learning Experience UK is seeking a Nursery Chef to plan and prepare nutritious meals for children while upholding stringent food safety standards. You will manage allergies, liaise with staff, and help maintain a clean, compliant kitchen across our nurseries.

We offer a competitive salary up to £38,750, generous leave, childcare discount, life insurance, AVIVA pension, PerkBox, paid leave for birthdays, overtime and sickness, plus company events.

Qualifications

• 1+ year experience in food preparation and cooking.
• Good written and spoken English (GCSE or equivalent).
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergy management.
• Previous nursery/school/care setting experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare healthy, nutritious meals for children of all ages.
• Manage allergies and dietary needs, communicating with staff daily.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
• Order supplies, manage inventory and track records in line with regulations.
• Support daily nursery operations in collaboration with leadership.
• Demonstrate a flexible, positive, customer-focused attitude.

Skills

Food preparation

Cooking

English communication

Allergy management

Teamwork

Education

Level 2 Food Safety Award (or above)

Job description

Nursery Chef at The Learning Experience UK

At The Learning Experience happiness is at the heart of everything we do. Our nurseries are designed to help children Learn, Play and Grow in safe and inspiring environments.

We are now looking for an enthusiastic Nursery Chef to join our team, preparing nutritious, balanced meals for children while ensuring the highest food safety standards.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: up to £38,750 per year
• 22 days annual leave + bank holidays (plus loyalty days)
• Childcare discount & medical cashback plan (covering up to 4 children)
• Life insurance & AVIVA pension scheme
• PerkBox - discounts, wellness perks & rewards
• Paid birthday leave, overtime & sick days
• Company-funded staff events

Eligibility: The successful candidate must have the legal right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment. Please note that this role is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.

The Role

As Nursery Chef, you will:

• Plan and prepare healthy, nutritious meals for children of all ages.
• Manage allergies and dietary needs, communicating daily with staff.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
• Order supplies, manage inventory, and track records in line with regulations.
• Work closely with nursery leadership to support the daily running of the setting.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a positive, customer-focused attitude.

About You

• 1+ year of experience in food preparation and cooking.
• Ability to achieve Level 2 Food Safety Award (or above) within 90 days of hire.
• Good written and spoken English (GCSE or equivalent).
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergy management.
• Previous experience working in a nursery, school, or care setting.
• Strong organisational skills and a proactive, team-focused approach.

Why Join Us?

This is a rewarding opportunity to combine your passion for food with making a real difference in children's lives. You'll be part of a supportive team in a modern nursery environment, with excellent benefits and opportunities for growth.