• Plan and prepare nutritious, balanced meals and snacks in line with current nutritional guidelines (EYFS Nutrition Guidance) for young children.

• Cater for children with allergies, food intolerances, cultural, religious, and medical dietary requirements.

• Prepare meals from fresh ingredients where possible.

• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness in accordance with Food Standards Agency guidance and HACCP procedures.

• Ensure all food is safely stored, labelled, and rotated using stock control procedures.

• Monitor food temperatures and maintain accurate food safety records.

• Order food supplies and kitchen consumables within the agreed budget.

• Minimise food waste through effective planning and stock management.

• Ensure the kitchen and food preparation areas remain clean, organised, and compliant with health and safety regulations.

• Work closely with the Nursery Manager regarding menus, special dietary needs, and food budgets.

• Support nursery events by preparing food for celebrations where appropriate.

• Report any maintenance issues or health and safety concerns promptly.

Requirements

• Clear Enhanced DBS Certificate, registered on the DBS Update Service.
• Previous experience working as a cook in a nursery, school, care, or catering environment is ideal but not essential.

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).

• Good understanding of food safety legislation and allergen management.
• Proven experience of managing allergens/ intolerances and communicating this effectively.

• Knowledge of the statutory healthy eating guidelines for young children. (EYFS Nutrition Guidance)

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

• Ability to work independently and manage a busy kitchen.

• Friendly, reliable, and enthusiastic approach.

• Good communication skills.

Benefits

• Annual Midnight Moon nursery celebration event.
• Training and development programme.
• On-site parking.
• Nursery closed between Christmas and New Year.
• Mon-Fri weekday working (08:30 - 17:00) and closed on Bank Holidays.
• Generous salary
• Work in a staff team of friendly, happy people and wonderful children and families!