At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook nutritious meals for children across multiple nurseries.
- Company: Join Bright Horizons, a supportive organisation driven by HEART principles.
- Benefits: Enjoy 50% childcare discount, enhanced parental leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible role with great career growth in a fun, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while pursuing your passion for healthy eating.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial catering and knowledge of dietary requirements essential.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 29000 £ per year.
Nursery – Bright Horizons Basingstoke Day Nursery and Preschool
Salary – Starting from £29,000 per annum (dependant on qualification/s and experience)
Location – Hampshire (Basingstoke and Chineham areas)
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 Field Chef to join our team, to provide cover across our nurseries within the Basingstoke and Chineham areas.
- Candidates applying for this position MUST have a clean driver's license and own car as it's a requirement for the role.
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 Field Chef, you will travel to nurseries within a region where cover is needed, when the permanent Chef is on annual leave, or at times of sickness or absence. 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 will work in partnership with the nursery teams to support the nursery care and education provision. You will also keep accurate kitchen records, maintain a clean and safe work environment, and support nursery management with food ordering.
What we’re looking for:
- Previous experience within a commercial catering role
- 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
- Ability and willingness to work across multiple sites, with access to own transport, and clean driving license
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. Proud to be a Great Place to Work for 20 years. Apply today!
Early Years Field Chef in Basingstoke employer: Bright Horizons
At Bright Horizons Poole Montessori Day Nursery and Pre School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values individuality and fosters a supportive work environment. With competitive benefits such as a £1,000 welcome bonus, generous annual leave, and comprehensive professional development opportunities, we empower our Nursery Managers to lead with confidence and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children. Join us in a vibrant location where your leadership can shine and contribute to a culture of excellence in early years education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Field Chef in Basingstoke
✨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. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bright Horizons
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bright Horizons 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 Field Chef in Basingstoke
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 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
✨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!
