Are You Ready to Cook Up Something Wonderful at The WonderWorks?
If you are a creative, caring and qualified chef who wants to make a difference in early childhood, we'd love to hear from you.
The WonderWorks Nursery is looking for a passionate and experienced Nursery Chef to prepare healthy, balanced meals for children aged 0–5. This role is key to promoting children's well-being through nutritious food and a safe, engaging mealtime environment.
Key Responsibilities:
* Plan and prepare daily meals and snacks in line with our Nutritional Pledge.
* Adapt menus for allergies, intolerances, and cultural or parental preferences.
* Ensure high standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
* Manage stock, place orders, and liaise with trusted suppliers.
* Support food-related learning activities and family engagement events.
* Maintain accurate records (allergens, cleaning logs, temperature checks).
* Follow safeguarding procedures and attend regular training.
What We're Looking For:
* Previous experience as a chef, ideally in a nursery or school or similar setting. We also welcome chefs from other backgrounds who are passionate about working with children.
* Food hygiene certification (Level 2 or higher).
* Strong understanding of child nutrition and food safety.
* Organised, adaptable, and passionate about healthy eating.
Why Work With Us:
* Help shape healthy habits from an early age.
* Be part of a friendly, supportive, and values-driven company.
* Opportunities to contribute to events, workshops, and special projects.
Working Hours and location:
* The WonderWorks, Leavesden, WD25
* 45 hours per week – Monday to Friday 9am-6pm
* We welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible or job-share arrangements, where possible.
The WonderWorks is committed to building an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, including those who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, or have a disability. We provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process – if you require any, please let us know.
This role involves working with children and is subject to mandatory safer recruitment checks. These include obtaining an enhanced DBS check and at least two references. Please note The WonderWorks is committed to keeping all children safe and the successful candidate will receive a comprehensive induction program including online safeguarding and child protection training, food hygiene training and other health and safety training. The WonderWorks will cover the cost of these safer recruitment checks and training.
* Full-Time, Permanent
* Training and wellbeing support
* Free gym membership
* Private healthcare (opt in after probation)
* Company pension (opt in after probation)
* Company sick pay (opt in after probation)
APPLICATION DEADLINE 29TH AUGUST 2025
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £32,502.60 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Casual dress
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* Gym membership
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
* Private medical insurance
* Sick pay
Experience:
* Catering- Nursery, education or care settings: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person