Nursery Chef Hours: 25 per week (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, year-round) Salary: Competitive, with holiday entitlement (4 weeks paid leave plus bank holidays and an additional day at Christmas) Start Date: ASAP A dedicated and passionate Nursery Cook is required to prepare nutritious, fresh meals for children and staff in a childcare setting. This role plays a vital part in ensuring that young children receive balanced, high-quality meals while maintaining exceptional hygiene and food safety standards. Key Responsibilities: - Prepare and cook a two-course lunch for up to 50 children and 10 adults, focusing on fresh, nutritious ingredients. - Accommodate special dietary requirements, including religious and health-related needs. - Assist in the preparation of tea, collaborating with childcare staff to ensure a variety of options, including sandwiches and a simple tray bake. - Bake daily low/no sugar items, such as cake or flapjack. - Ensure that kitchen and equipment remain clean, safe, and hygienic at all times. - Maintain records in accordance with Environmental Health requirements and food management systems. - Follow labelling regulations to ensure safe food storage and allergen identification. - Order food and necessary supplies, with some purchases made online, requiring basic computer literacy. - Manage portion control, kitchen budget, and food waste efficiently. - Plan seasonal menus with full ingredient lists using a computer-based system. - Complete basic cleaning and laundry tasks to support overall nursery standards. - Occasionally prepare meals for special occasions such as Christmas lunches or parties. - Induct new staff in food hygiene policies and procedures and contribute to ongoing staff training. Person Specification; - Passionate about providing nutritious meals for children. - Ability to cook a variety of dishes from a structured six-week rotating menu. - Strong understanding of Food Hygiene and Safer Food Better Business practices. - Highly organised, self-motivated, and capable of working independently. - A team player with a positive and flexible attitude. - Reliable, trustworthy, and discreet. Experience & Qualifications: - Previous experience in catering within the care industry is desirable but not essential full training is provided. - Some experience working with children is beneficial, as food plays an essential role in learning and development. - Basic Food Hygiene Certificate required (Level 1 and 2 can be provided in-house). - Level 3 Food Safety certification is an advantage and will be required for the role. - Enhanced DBS check and two references required before starting work. - A clean driving licence is desirable. If you are Interested in the role please contact Giles for further information Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people. AMRT1_UKCT