Nursery Chef

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

Benefits offered by this job

PerkBox

Childcare discount

Medical cashback plan

Life insurance

Pension scheme

Staff events

Birthday leave

Overtime

Job summary

The Learning Experience UK is hiring a Nursery Chef in Leatherhead to plan and prepare nutritious meals for children while upholding strict food safety standards. You will manage allergies, coordinate with staff, and maintain hygienic kitchen practices in a supportive nursery setting.

Ideal candidates have 1+ year cooking experience, English proficiency, and knowledge of food safety. The role offers competitive pay and benefits with opportunities for growth.

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.
• Previous experience working in a nursery, school, or care setting.
• 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.

Job description

Nursery Chef at The Learning Experience UK

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

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.