At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present nutritious meals for children while leading fun cookery sessions.
- Company: Join Bright Horizons, a nursery driven by HEART principles.
- Benefits: Enjoy 50% childcare discount, enhanced leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through healthy eating and cooking.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking, passion for nutrition, and great communication skills.
Nursery – Bright Horizons Kingston Day Nursery and Preschool
Salary – Starting from £30,659.20 per annum (dependent on qualification/s and experience)
Location – Kingston upon Thames
Are you looking to work for an organisation whose culture is driven by our HEART principles – Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork? Where you can be yourself, feel supported, and help to make a difference to the next generation? Somewhere you can say: "I did that."
We’re looking for an Early Years Chef to join our Bright Horizons Kingston Day Nursery and Preschool.
Our Benefits
- Childcare discount of 50% for first child*
- Enhanced parental leave
- 20 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and paid Christmas closure. Ability to also purchase additional leave*
- Pension
- Financial and wellbeing benefits including 24/7 virtual GP appointments, early access to wages, and more
- Professional development programme access for every stage of your career, including access to a careers coach
Subject to T&Cs
The Role
As an Early Years Chef you will prepare, cook, and present age-appropriate food for all the children in the nursery, with minimum wastage. You will ensure all dietary requirements are catered for and clearly communicated to teams, and work in partnership with the team and parents to encourage a healthy and nutritious diet. You will also have an active role in leading cookery club sessions with the children, and support with other nursery activities, such as BBQs, Fetes, and staff meetings.
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience within a cooking role, in a domestic or commercial property
- Passion for nutrition, and inspiring others in healthy eating
- Ability to demonstrate a sound knowledge of managing different dietary requirements, particularly food allergies
- Food Safety CIEH L2 or above (or equivalent) – this must be passed on day 1 in post
- Sound knowledge of COSHH
- Great communication skills, with colleagues, children, and parents
- Ability to work under pressure
Bright Horizons is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to safer recruitment practice and pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check, which will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all ages and backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants.
Early Years Chef in Kingston upon Thames employer: Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool
Bright Horizons Wokingham Day Nursery and Pre School is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture driven by our HEART principles. With generous benefits such as childcare discounts, enhanced parental leave, and a strong commitment to professional development, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children. Located conveniently in Wokingham, the nursery offers a vibrant environment where staff can enjoy monthly treats and flexible working options, ensuring a fulfilling career in early years education.
Contact Details:
Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Chef in Kingston upon Thames
✨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 Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool 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 Early Years Chef in Kingston upon Thames
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 Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool 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 Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool
✨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!
