Nursery Cook

Sunnydays; Broadstone; On-site; GBP 17,096 - 19,286; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly rate

Free DBS check

Referral bonus

Length of service bonus

Sick pay scheme

Half-price childcare

Free staff meal

Free Flu jab

Job summary

A childcare services provider in Broadstone is looking for a Nursery Cook to prepare healthy meals for young children. This crucial role involves maintaining kitchen hygiene, adapting menus for dietary needs, and collaborating with staff. Candidates should have at least one year of relevant experience and a good understanding of nutrition for children. The position offers competitive pay, free DBS checks, a referral bonus, and other benefits that support the team's commitment to creating a nurturing environment for children.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year’s post-qualifying experience.
• Good understanding of nutrition for young children.
• Confidence managing dietary requirements and allergies.

Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh, wholesome meals and snacks for children under five.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen.
• Communicate clearly with staff and children as part of the wider nursery team.

Skills

Positive, friendly and approachable

Open to learning, resilient, high expectations

Committed to safeguarding and wellbeing

Job description

Salary: £12.41 – £14.00 per hour (depending on experience)

Locations: Broadstone

Hours: Part-time – 12.5 hours per week

We’re looking for a caring, organised and passionate Nursery Cook to join our Broadstone team.

This is a hugely important role within the nursery. You’ll be responsible for preparing healthy, nutritious meals and snacks that support children’s wellbeing, development and enjoyment of food. From babies through to preschoolers – and occasionally Play Club children – your cooking will help fuel busy, happy days of learning and play.

You’ll take pride in running a safe, well‑organised kitchen, working closely with the wider nursery team to ensure every child’s dietary needs are met. Above all, you’ll share our commitment to creating a warm, inclusive environment where children feel cared for and valued.

What we’re looking for

• SMILE – positive, friendly and approachable
• STRIVE – open to learning, resilient, high expectations
• SAFE – committed to safeguarding and wellbeing

Knowledge & Experience

• At least 1 year’s post‑qualifying experience
• Up‑to‑date food hygiene knowledge (or willingness to refresh)
• Good understanding of nutrition for young children
• Confidence managing dietary requirements and allergies
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Enhanced DBS clearance (paid for by Sunny Days)

What you’ll be doing

• Prepare fresh, wholesome meals and snacks for children under five, and occasionally for Play Club children (5–11 years).
• Plan and follow varied, nutritious menus suitable for young children, adapting for allergies and dietary needs.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen and dining areas, in line with food safety and health & safety guidance.
• Order food from local suppliers, considering quality, seasonality and value for money.
• Keep accurate records, including food safety checks, cleaning schedules and stock management.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is well maintained and used safely.
• Communicate clearly with staff and children, working as part of the wider nursery team.
• Occasionally support cookery activities with children alongside nursery staff.
• Take part in training, supervision and performance reviews to support your ongoing development.
• Always treat children, families and colleagues with kindness, respect and professionalism.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate
• Free DBS check – Sunny Days will cover the cost of your DBS check.
• £250 Refer a friend scheme – payment for recruitment – £250 – paid upon successful probation.
• Length of service bonus – monetary bonus for every 5 years of employment.
• Sick pay scheme – eligible after 1 year – 1 day accumulated every year until 5 years then leads to length of service bonus.
• Half‑price childcare from day 1.
• Hot staff meal provided – supplied when on duty.
• Free Flu jab.

Apply online and one of our friendly team will be in touch for an informal chat. We can even arrange your very own Nursery Tour!