Nursery Chef

Pitta Patta Day Nursery; Greater London; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Pitta Patta Day Nursery LTD in Greater London is seeking a Nursery Chef who is passionate, reliable and organised to join our friendly team. You will prepare fresh, nutritious meals for children from 3 months to 5 years, ensuring meals meet individual dietary needs and support growth.

You will promote healthy eating, follow EYFS nutritional guidance and food hygiene procedures, manage kitchen stock within budget, and work closely with practitioners to meet dietary requirements.

Qualifications

• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate or equivalent.
• Experience in nursery/school setting preferred.
• Good understanding of children's nutritional needs.
• Organised, reliable and able to work independently.
• Strong team and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious meals and snacks for children.
• Plan varied menus meeting nutritional needs of 3 months to 5 years.
• Cater for dietary requirements incl. allergies.
• Prepare age-appropriate meals with safe portions.
• Support introduction of new foods and encourage healthy eating.
• Minimise food waste through portion control and planning.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen.
• Follow HACCP procedures and nursery policies.
• Monitor stock, ordering and deliveries within budget.
• Record food safety checks and allergen information.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Organisation

Multitasking

Education

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Salary: Salary Negotiable - Starting from £13.50ph

We are looking for a passionate, reliable and organised Nursery Chef to join our friendly team at Pitta Patta Day Nursery.

As our Nursery Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and serving fresh, healthy, nutritious and balanced meals for children aged 3 months to 5 years, ensuring all meals meet their individual dietary needs and support their growth and development.

You will play an important role in promoting healthy eating habits, maintaining high standards of food hygiene and safety, and creating varied and enjoyable menus in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) nutritional guidance.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Meal Preparation and Menu Planning

• Prepare and cook fresh, nutritious and balanced meals, snacks and refreshments for children.
• Plan and follow varied menus that meet the nutritional needs of children aged 3 months to 5 years.
• Cater for individual dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, cultural and religious preferences.
• Prepare age-appropriate meals, ensuring food is served safely and in suitable portions.
• Support the introduction of new foods and encourage healthy eating habits.
• Minimise food waste through effective portion control and meal planning.

Food Hygiene and Safety

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food hygiene in the kitchen.
• Follow food safety legislation, HACCP procedures and nursery policies.
• Ensure all food is stored, prepared, cooked and served safely.
• Complete daily food safety checks, including temperature monitoring and cleaning records.
• Maintain accurate allergen information and prevent cross-contamination.
• Ensure the kitchen meets Environmental Health requirements.
• Manage food stock, ordering and deliveries while working within the nursery's allocated budget.
• Monitor stock rotation, expiry dates and food storage.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Ensure the kitchen and food preparation areas are clean, organised and safe.
• Maintain accurate records of food safety checks and dietary requirements.

Teamwork and Communication

• Work closely with nursery management and practitioners to ensure children's dietary needs are met.
• Communicate effectively regarding allergies, menu changes and individual requirements.
• Support nursery events and celebrations by preparing suitable food and refreshments.
• Promote positive food experiences and healthy eating throughout the nursery.
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety and nursery policies at all times.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has previous experience preparing and cooking meals, ideally within a nursery, school or similar setting.
• Has a good understanding of children's nutritional needs and healthy eating.
• Holds a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate or equivalent.
• Has excellent knowledge of food allergies, dietary requirements and safe food preparation.
• Is organised, reliable and able to manage their workload independently.
• Has good communication skills and enjoys working as part of a team.
• Is passionate about providing children with fresh, nutritious and enjoyable meals.
• Is committed to maintaining high standards of food hygiene and safety.

Are you passionate about cooking and making a positive difference to children's health and wellbeing?

We would love to hear from you!

Join our friendly team at Pitta Patta Day Nursery and help provide nutritious, delicious meals that support children's growth, development and love of healthy food.