Nursery Chef

Willing Care Recruitment Limited; Lewisham; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme included

Annual leave increases with length of/

DBS check provided at no cost

Job summary

Willing Care Recruitment Limited is seeking an experienced Chef to join a growing early years setting in Lewisham, London. The role focuses on planning balanced meals for children aged 3 months to pre-school and managing nutrition, allergen controls and dietary standards.

You will work daytime hours with no evenings, maintain food hygiene, stock management and liaison with nursery staff to meet individual dietary needs. DBS checks are provided.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Chef in a nursery, school or similar setting.
• Strong understanding of child nutrition and food allergens.
• Ability to manage a kitchen independently.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards.
• Relevant food hygiene certification.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare balanced meals for children across different age groups.
• Manage dietary requirements, allergies, and nutritional standards.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene, and compliance at all times.
• Order and manage kitchen stock and supplies.
• Work independently to organise daily kitchen operations.
• Liaise with nursery staff regarding children’s dietary needs.

Skills

Child nutrition

Allergen knowledge

Kitchen independence

Food safety

Food hygiene certification

Job description

Our client has an exciting opportunity for an experience Chef to join their growing early years setting – They provide care for children aged 3 months to pre-school. The nursery offers a home-from-home environment with a clear focus on learning through play.

We’re looking for an experienced chef who has experience working in childcare or education settings, and who can manage nutrition, allergens, and meal planning independently.

Why This Role Is Worth Considering:

• Daytime working hours with no evening or late-night shifts
• Stable, routine-based kitchen environment
• Clear responsibility for menu planning and kitchen management
• Pension scheme included
• Annual leave increases with length of service
• DBS check provided at no cost

What You’ll Do:

• Plan and prepare balanced meals for children across different age groups
• Manage dietary requirements, allergies, and nutritional standards
• Maintain food safety, hygiene, and compliance at all times
• Order and manage kitchen stock and supplies
• Work independently to organise daily kitchen operations
• Liaise with nursery staff regarding children’s dietary needs

Safer recruitment checks will apply, including references and an enhanced DBS check.

Reference: WILL272136/DN

What You’ll Need:

• Experience working as a Chef in a nursery, school, or similar setting
• Strong understanding of child nutrition and food allergens
• Ability to manage a kitchen independently
• Knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards
• Relevant food hygiene certification