Nursery Cook

Early Years; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 11,000 - 15,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Exceeds NMW

Kitchen-based role

Job summary

Early Years is seeking a dedicated nursery cook to plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals for children aged 0–13. You will tailor menus to dietary needs and allergies, work with nursery staff, and ensure meals are age-appropriate and appealing.

The role focuses on food safety, hygiene, inventory, and cost control, with hours Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm (20 hours/week). Experience in childcare or school catering is preferred; Level 2 Food Hygiene certification is required.

Qualifications

• Experience as a cook, preferably in nursery/school/childcare.
• Knowledge of child nutrition and sanitation regulations.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene and Safety certification.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience with dietary restrictions in childcare settings.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare a balanced, nutritious weekly menu.
• Cook meals on time; ensure age-appropriate and balanced nutrition.
• Adhere to food hygiene and safety regulations; proper storage and handling.
• Keep kitchen clean; record temperatures and cleaning schedules.
• Accommodate allergies and dietary needs; adjust recipes as needed.
• Manage stock to reduce waste within budget.
• Coordinate with nursery staff and communicate with parents on menus.
• Ensure equipment is safe and maintained.

Skills

Cook experience

Food safety

Time management

Nursery experience

Dietary restrictions understanding

Education

Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene for Catering

Job description

Post is subject to a satisfactory DBS check: Yes

Probationary period: 6 months

Responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children aged [0-13 years] in line with dietary needs, food safety standards, and nursery guidelines. The cook will collaborate with nursery staff to ensure that meals meet children's individual dietary requirements, including allergies and intolerances, and promote healthy eating habits from an early age.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Planning and Preparation:
  • Provide a balanced, nutritious weekly menu that complies with nursery policies and meets the dietary needs of children, including those with specific requirements (e.g., allergies, intolerances, cultural preferences).
  • Prepare and cook meals on time, ensuring that they are appealing, age-appropriate, and nutritionally balanced.
• Food Safety and Hygiene:
  • Adhere to all food hygiene and health and safety regulations, including proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques.
  • Ensure the kitchen is cleaned and sanitized daily, maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
  • Keep accurate records of food preparation, temperatures, and cleaning schedules in accordance with nursery and local health authority guidelines.
• Nutrition and Special Diets:
  • Accommodate individual dietary needs and allergies by adjusting recipes and ingredients as necessary.
  • Ensure meals promote healthy eating habits, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Inventory and Stock Control:
  • Maintain stock of fresh, frozen, and dry ingredients.
  • Manage kitchen supplies efficiently to reduce waste while keeping within the nursery's budget.
• Regularly check and maintain kitchen equipment to ensure it is safe and in working condition.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Liaise with nursery management and childcare staff to ensure children's individual needs are met.
• Communicate effectively with parents when necessary, providing information about menus and any special dietary accommodations.
• Participate in training and professional development to stay updated on food hygiene standards and nutritional guidelines for young children.

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a cook, preferably in a nursery, school, or childcare environment.
• Knowledge of child nutrition, food safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Certification in food hygiene and safety (e.g., Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene for Catering).
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Previous experience working in a childcare or early years setting.
• Understanding of dietary restrictions such as gluten‑free, dairy‑free, or vegetarian meals.

What We Offer:

• Exceeds NMW
• Work is primarily in the kitchen, with potential physical demands including standing for long periods, lifting kitchen supplies, and operating cooking equipment.

Hours of work: Monday to Friday, [10am – 2pm] 20 hours per week.