Nursery Chef: Nutritious Meals & Kitchen Lead

Busy Bees; Colchester; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career progression

Bee Curious benefits

28 days holiday

Birthday off

25% childcare discount

Enhanced family leave

Peppy menopause support

Salary Finance

EAP & MH First Aiders

Cycle to Work

Private medical insurance

Job summary

Busy Bees in Colchester Stanway is seeking a dedicated Chef to join our kitchen team. You will prepare healthy, nutritious meals for young children, ensuring dietary needs are met while supporting their growth and development in an Ofsted-rated Good nursery.

Join a nurturing, supportive environment with opportunities for professional development and involvement in Busy Bees’ initiatives, including the Bee Curious curriculum and community partnerships.

Qualifications

• Experience in catering or kitchen operations.
• Empathy and understanding—each child is unique.
• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above) is required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary needs.
• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Manage kitchen staff and collaborate with regulatory bodies during inspections.
• Maintain kitchen inventory and efficiently manage purchasing.

Skills

Catering experience

Empathy

Education

Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2+)

Job description

Busy Bees in Colchester Stanway is seeking a dedicated Chef to join our kitchen team. You will prepare healthy, nutritious meals for young children, ensuring dietary needs are met while supporting their growth and development in an Ofsted-rated Good nursery.

Join a nurturing, supportive environment with opportunities for professional development and involvement in Busy Bees’ initiatives, including the Bee Curious curriculum and community partnerships.