Nursery Chef

The Learning Experience UK; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Medical cashback

PerkBox

Life insurance

Staff events

CPD & training

Job summary

The Learning Experience UK is seeking a Nursery Chef to plan and prepare healthy meals for children across our nurseries, while upholding high food safety and hygiene standards.

You will manage allergies, liaise with staff, order supplies, and contribute to a safe, welcoming environment. The role offers a competitive salary, generous leave, pension and training opportunities.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Desirable: previous experience in a nursery, school, or care setting.
• Desirable: strong organisational skills and a proactive, team-focused approach.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Food prep

Food safety

Allergy management

English proficiency

Teamwork

Education

Level 2 Food Safety Award

Job description

About Us

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 £39,998 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
• Ongoing training, CPD & career development opportunities

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

Essential:

• 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.

Desirable:

• 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.