Nursery Kitchen Lead Chef — Nutritious Menus & Growth

Busy Bees; Shoeburyness; Remote; GBP 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Birthday off

Up to 28 days holiday

Career progression & training

Wellbeing resources

Discounts on retail brands

Cycle to Work scheme

Pension & financial perks

Discounted Private Medical Insurance (

25% childcare discount

Job summary

Busy Bees in Shoeburyness is opening a BRAND-NEW nursery this Winter and seeks a star Chef to craft healthy, appealing meals for our young learners. You’ll lead kitchen operations, ensure food safety, and collaborate with team members to deliver nutritious menus that support growth and development.

We offer a competitive hourly rate of £14.35, a birthday off, up to 28 days holiday, career progression, and wellbeing resources to help you thrive in a caring environment for children.

Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above) is required.
• Experience in catering or kitchen operations.
• Passion for creating balanced, nutritious meals for young children.
• Empathy and understanding of children’s needs.
• Previous roles as Chef/Assistant Chef/Cook/Café Manager are welcomed.

Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, delicious meals that meet children’s dietary needs.
• Oversee kitchen operations and ensure food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Manage kitchen staff and liaise with regulatory bodies during inspections.
• Create nutritious menus that keep little tummies happy.
• Maintain kitchen inventory and efficient purchasing.

Skills

Food hygiene

Catering/kitchen operations

Child nutrition awareness

Empathy

Team collaboration

Education

Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2+)

Job description

Busy Bees in Shoeburyness is opening a BRAND-NEW nursery this Winter and seeks a star Chef to craft healthy, appealing meals for our young learners. You’ll lead kitchen operations, ensure food safety, and collaborate with team members to deliver nutritious menus that support growth and development.

We offer a competitive hourly rate of £14.35, a birthday off, up to 28 days holiday, career progression, and wellbeing resources to help you thrive in a caring environment for children.