Job Overview
Create healthy, delicious meals that help children grow, thrive and enjoy every day.
At Fennies, we know that great nutrition is a key part of early childhood development. As a Nursery Chef, you’ll play an essential role in supporting children’s wellbeing by preparing balanced, nutritious meals in a safe, high-quality kitchen environment.
Why join Fennies?
We support our team members with great benefits and a positive working environment.
Competitive salary and bonus
* Up to £32,000 annual salary
* Performance‑related bonuses
Work‑life balance
* Monday to Friday
* 20 days annual leave (increasing by 1 day for every year of service, up to 25 days) plus bank holidays
* Free daily meals from the Fennies Café
* Summer BBQs, Christmas events and company celebrations
* Recognition and reward through the Fennies Club long‑service awards
* Full training
* Support and mentoring from experienced Catering Managers
* Personalised development plans, mentoring and support
About the Role
As a Nursery Chef, you’ll create nutritious, balanced meals that support children’s health, development and enjoyment of food.
Responsibilities
* Prepare fresh, healthy meals and snacks for children each day
* Plan menus that meet nutritional guidelines and dietary requirements
* Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and cleanliness
* Ensure all allergens and dietary needs are carefully managed
* Work closely with the Nursery Manager and team to create a positive mealtime experience
* Support kitchen organisation, stock control and ordering
What we’re looking for
You don’t need previous nursery experience – we’ll provide the training you need. You’re a passionate and organised chef who takes pride in creating high‑quality meals and maintaining excellent kitchen standards.
We’re looking for someone who is:
* Experienced in catering; experience in a childcare setting would be ideal, but not essential
* Knowledgeable about children’s nutrition and dietary requirements
* Qualified with a Level 2 or 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
* Trained in allergen awareness
* Organised, reliable and able to manage a busy kitchen environment
* A positive team player who enjoys working alongside others
Most importantly, you care about the impact your food has on children’s health and happiness.
Become part of the Fennies DNA
We’re family‑owned and family‑run; this guides our culture, our decision‑making, and what it feels like to be part of our team. From our supportive culture to our high‑quality environments, we’re committed to creating exceptional places to work and learn. Our People Promise inspires us to build the kind of culture that is ambitious, passionate and supportive. We provide the environment where you can:
* Be Yourself
* Come Together
* Be All In
* Go Further
Diversity and Inclusion
At Fennies, we celebrate diversity and believe inclusive teams create stronger learning environments for children. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
Safeguarding
Fennies is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide proof of identity. In line with Safer Recruitment guidance, online searches (including social media) may be conducted for shortlisted candidates.
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