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Ashbourne Day Nurseries Limited; Stratford-upon-Avon; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Ashbourne Day Nurseries is seeking a dedicated Nursery Chef to join our friendly team and support children's health through home-cooked meals. The role focuses on preparing nutritious, age-appropriate dishes in a nursery setting, with emphasis on hygiene, safety, and alignment with EYFS guidance.

You will manage kitchen operations, accommodate dietary requirements, and work closely with staff to provide healthy meal routines. DBS checks are part of the safeguarding process for all staff.

Qualifications

• Experience preparing nutritious meals in a nursery or similar setting.
• Ability to plan and prepare age-appropriate meals.
• Knowledge of EYFS nutrition guidelines.
• Ability to manage kitchen stock and orders.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare healthy meals and snacks for children.
• Maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene.
• Order supplies and manage stock.
• Support dietary requirements and allergies.
• Lead kitchen operations and assist with inspections.

Skills

Nursery cooking experience

Hygiene standards

Allergen awareness

Education

Food hygiene certificate

Job description

Do you have experience preparing nutritious meals in a nursery (or similar) setting? Ashbourne Day Nurseries is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Nursery Chef to join our friendly team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a childcare environment and wants to make a real difference by supporting children's health and development through healthy, home-cooked food.

About Us

At Ashbourne Day Nurseries, we provide high-quality care and education for children in a warm, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Since 2008, we've grown from our first nursery in Oxley Park, Milton Keynes, into a group of unique nurseries based in a variety of settings - from purpose-built spaces to listed buildings.

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, and we know that nutritious food is a key part of a child's early development. That's why we are looking for a Nursery Chef who shares our commitment to children's well-being and understands the importance of balanced, healthy meals.

Your Role as a Nursery Chef

As the Nursery Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and cooking fresh, healthy, and age-appropriate meals and snacks for the children in our care. You'll ensure the kitchen operates smoothly, safely, and in line with all food hygiene and health & safety regulations. This is a key role within the nursery, supporting children's overall development and well-being through nutritious food.

What You'll Be Doing

Planning and preparing healthy meals and snacks in line with dietary guidelines and children's individual needs

Managing kitchen supplies, ordering food, and maintaining stock levels

Ensuring high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen at all times

Catering for children with allergies or specific dietary requirements

Maintaining food safety records and adhering to food hygiene regulations

Working closely with nursery staff to support meal routines and food education

Helping create a warm, welcoming kitchen atmosphere that supports a nurturing environment for children

Able to confidently lead EHO inspections

Ashbourne Day Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.