At a Glance
- Tasks: Support meal prep and maintain a clean kitchen for our little ones.
- Company: Join Acorn Early Years, a nurturing nursery with a vibrant team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, childcare discounts, generous leave, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a commitment to professional development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while working in a fun environment.
- Qualifications: Team player with a good understanding of food hygiene.
The predicted salary is between 24532 - 29984 £ per year.
Acorn Early Years is looking for a reliable and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our welcoming team at Burton Latimer Nursery. This is a vital role supporting the preparation of nutritious, age‑appropriate meals and maintaining a clean, safe and positive kitchen environment for our children.
About the Role
- Support the preparation and cooking of age‑appropriate food for all children
- Ensure all dietary requirements are catered for and clearly communicated to staff
- Assist in preparing sufficient food daily while minimising waste
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food hygiene in the kitchen and eating areas
- Complete all relevant food safety and hygiene paperwork accurately
- Monitor kitchen supplies and inform relevant staff when stock is running low
- Support the Nursery Cook with budget awareness and stock control
- Take responsibility for the kitchen in the absence of the Nursery Cook, when required
- Work in partnership with nursery staff and parents to promote healthy, nutritious diets
- Ensure compliance with Acorn policies, health & safety, fire safety and safeguarding procedures
- Safeguard all children and understand the role you play in keeping everyone safe
What We’re Looking For
- A flexible and reliable team player
- A good understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety (training supported)
- Ability to work within a busy childcare environment
- A positive, professional approach and willingness to support the wider nursery team
- Confidence to communicate effectively with colleagues
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality at all times
Why Join Acorn Early Years?
At Acorn, we are passionate about creating inclusive, welcoming environments where children and staff thrive. We value every team member and encourage ongoing professional development. We are proud to be an inclusive employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments will be considered throughout the recruitment process.
Safeguarding & Compliance
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, be able to provide two satisfactory references, and all roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
As a thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to making Acorn a safe, nurturing and fun place for our children to be, we offer:
- Payscales that are competitive, transparent and reviewed annually
- 65% childcare discount - Pro rata according to contracted hours
- Generous family leave
- Christmas closure
- 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays (and the option to buy more)
- 4 dedicated training days and individual development plans
Kitchen Assistant in Burton Latimer employer: Acorn Early Years Foundation
Acorn Early Years is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our Early Years Practitioners. Located in the charming village of Emberton, we offer flexible working arrangements, competitive pay, and generous benefits including childcare discounts and professional development opportunities. Join our passionate team and contribute to creating enriching experiences for children while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Acorn Early Years Foundation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant in Burton Latimer
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Acorn Early Years Foundation. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Acorn Early Years Foundation
Don't be shy about reaching out to Acorn Early Years Foundation directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant in Burton Latimer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Acorn Early Years Foundation and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Early Years Foundation
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
