Nursery Chef – Join the Ashbourne Day Nurseries Team
Location: Wing
Position: Full-Time, Permanent
Do you love cooking and have a passion for preparing nutritious meals for children? 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
About You
* A passion for cooking and a desire to support children's well-being through nutrition
* Experience in a kitchen or catering
* Knowledge of food hygiene and safety procedures
* Ability to plan menus and prepare meals in line with children's nutritional needs
* A calm, organised, and reliable approach to kitchen work
* Strong communication and teamwork skills
* A flexible and positive attitude
What We Offer
* A competitive salary package
* Ongoing training and development opportunities
* A friendly and supportive working environment
* Opportunities to gain additional qualifications (e.g. Food Hygiene Level 2/3, Allergy Awareness)
Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're passionate about food and eager to make a difference in children's lives, we'd love to hear from you Apply today and take the next step in your career as a Nursery Chef with Ashbourne Day Nurseries.
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.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£28,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Childcare
* Company pension
* Store discount
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person