At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare healthy meals for up to 124 children in a vibrant nursery setting.
- Company: Join Childbase Partnership, a leader in early years childcare.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, childcare discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives through nutritious cooking.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and knowledge of food safety standards.
The predicted salary is between 12.87 - 12.87 £ per hour.
Join Childbase Partnership and be part of something extraordinary.
Role: Kitchen Assistant | Preparing meals for up to 124 children aged 6 weeks-5 years old.
Location: Garsington Road Day Nursery | Cowley, Oxford | OX4 2DQ.
Contract: Permanent; to start in September/October 2026 | 37.5 hours/week | 52 weeks/year.
Working pattern: Varied shifts Monday-Friday between 07:30-18:30.
Salary: £25,096.50 per annum (pro‑rata) | £12.87 per hour.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave: 23 days paid leave per annum (pro‑rata), rising to 28 days with length of service, plus paid bank holidays.
- Work‑life balance: Up to a further 20 paid days off each year through our Partnership Reward Days incentive; take your leave or sell the days you accrue, tax‑free.
- Childcare discount: 75% discount (or 40% grandparent discount) on your fees at any Childbase nursery, from day one.
- Exclusive partner benefits: Long‑service rewards, qualification bonuses and retail discounts.
- Wellbeing support: Free meals, mental health and occupational health support, flu jabs, eye care vouchers and a free will‑writing service.
- Career development: Team inset days, access to online training and apprenticeships through our academy.
About you
- You are passionate about preparing wholesome, healthy meals: You have professional catering experience which will enable you to contribute towards the preparation of a range of meals from a set‑menu, using fresh ingredients.
- You are diligent: Your knowledge of COSHH, allergens and manual handling alongside your experience working in a professional kitchen environment will ensure you effectively contribute towards maintaining 5‑star hygiene standards within the kitchen.
- You are an advocate for safeguarding: You will ensure the well‑being and dietary needs of every child are met.
- You are collaborative: In partnership with the Nursery Cook, you will promote healthy eating, build respectful relationships with colleagues, children and parents and resume full responsibility for all food preparation and cooking tasks in the absence of the cook.
We are an inclusive employer and we welcome applicants of all ages and backgrounds. We’re committed to FREDIE (fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion and engagement) and will consider any reasonable adjustments required.
Applicants must currently reside within a commutable distance of the nursery and hold suitable Right to Work in the UK; VISA sponsorship is not available.
Safer recruitment checks apply, which include an Enhanced DBS check.
Nursery Kitchen Assistant in Cowley employer: Childbase Partnership Limited
At Childbase Partnership, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and development. Located in the vibrant area of Cowley, Oxford, our Nursery Kitchen Assistant role provides generous benefits including extensive annual leave, childcare discounts, and opportunities for career growth through training and apprenticeships. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Childbase Partnership Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Kitchen Assistant in Cowley
✨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 Childbase Partnership Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Childbase Partnership Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Childbase Partnership Limited 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 Nursery Kitchen Assistant in Cowley
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 Childbase Partnership Limited 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 Childbase Partnership Limited
✨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!
