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- Tasks: Prepare fresh, healthy meals for children using our established menu.
- Company: Oaks Nursery is a reputable childcare provider on the University of Kent campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days’ annual leave and a competitive salary of £24,214.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a positive impact on children's nutrition and wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Must have a level 3 Food Safety qualification and knowledge of allergies.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS required; informal chats available with the Nursery Manager.
The predicted salary is between 24214 - 24214 £ per year.
Oaks Nursery is looking for an experienced Early Years Cook with a passion for preparing fresh meals using fresh ingredients and the ability to cook healthy food from scratch following our established menu. The cook must have a natural warm personality to fit in with our nursery. The right candidate will be up to date with all environmental health guidelines and have awareness of allergies and allergens. You will be willing to complete training and refresh knowledge and will hold a level 3 Food Safety qualification.
An enhanced DBS is required. Oaks Nursery is situated in Parkwood Road on the University of Kent campus, with close links to public transport. We are an established nursery, registered to care for up to 90 children a day with an excellent reputation in childcare. We accommodate children of University and Kent Students’ Union staff, and students. At our last inspection in October 2022, the nursery received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted.
You will be joining a team of 30 staff comprising of nursery practitioners, kitchen staff and support workers led by a manager, assistant manager, and room supervisors.
If you would like any further information or for an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch with Heidi Firth (Nursery Manager) on 01227 827676.
Closing date: 21/04/2025 23:59
Interview date: 02/05/2025
A full job pack with description and person spec is available on our careers website. To apply please email a CV and covering letter along with a Diversity Monitoring Form available from ksu.co.uk/careers to kentunionrecruitment@kent.ac.uk. Please ensure that you pay particular attention in your application to detailing how you meet the requirements of the person specification. Diversity Monitoring Forms are separated from applications prior to short-listing.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,214.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 21/04/2025
Early Years Cook employer: Kent Students' Union
Contact Detail:
Kent Students' Union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the nursery's established menu and be prepared to discuss how you can enhance it with your own ideas. Showing that you can bring creativity while adhering to their guidelines will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your knowledge of food safety and allergen awareness during the interview. Be ready to provide examples of how you've managed these aspects in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your warm personality by engaging with the interviewers in a friendly manner. Since the role involves working with children, showing your ability to connect with others will be key.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Oaks Nursery's reputation and values before your interview. Being able to articulate why you want to work there and how you align with their mission will show your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements for the Early Years Cook position. Pay attention to the qualifications needed, such as the level 3 Food Safety qualification and experience in cooking healthy meals from scratch.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your cooking experience, knowledge of food safety, and any previous work in childcare settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and working with children. Be sure to address how you meet the person specification and mention your understanding of allergies and allergens, as well as your willingness to complete training.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions precisely. Submit your CV, cover letter, and Diversity Monitoring Form to the specified email address before the deadline. Double-check that all documents are attached and formatted correctly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Students' Union
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for preparing fresh, healthy meals. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for cooking and how it aligns with the nursery's values.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Safety
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety regulations and environmental health guidelines. Highlight your Level 3 Food Safety qualification and any relevant training you've completed.
✨Highlight Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working in a team of 30 staff members, emphasise your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked well in a team environment in the past.
✨Prepare for Questions on Allergies and Dietary Needs
Expect questions about managing allergies and dietary restrictions. Be ready to discuss how you would accommodate children's specific needs while ensuring their meals are nutritious and safe.
