At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare healthy meals for children and ensure top hygiene standards.
- Company: Join a nurturing nursery with a focus on child well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, childcare discounts, and well-being support.
- Other info: Great career development opportunities in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives through nutritious cooking.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and knowledge of food safety regulations.
The predicted salary is between 16 - 16 £ per hour.
Location & Working Hours: Garsington Road Day Nursery, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 2DQ. Permanent, 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Varied shifts Monday–Friday between 07:30‑18:30.
Salary: £25,330.50‑£31,200 per annum (pro‑rata) | £12.99‑£16.00 per hour.
Benefits:
- Generous annual leave: 23 days paid per year (pro‑rata), rising to 28 days with length of service, plus paid bank holidays.
- Work‑life balance: Up to an additional 20 paid days off per year through Our Partnership Reward Days incentive; days can be taken or sold 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.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare wholesome, healthy meals and finish meals from a set‑menu using fresh ingredients, providing suitable alternatives for children with allergies and dietary requirements.
- Ensure 5‑star hygiene standards by applying COSHH, allergen, manual handling and environmental health legislation and maintaining Food Hygiene training compliance.
- Safeguard the well‑being and dietary needs of every child, promoting healthy eating education.
- Collaborate with the Nursery Manager to manage the kitchen budget, build respectful relationships with colleagues, children and parents, and lead and mentor the Kitchen Assistant.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Professional catering experience with ability to prepare a range of foods from a set menu.
- Knowledge of COSHH, allergens, manual handling, environmental health legislation and Food Hygiene training.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to uphold 5‑star hygiene standards.
- Advocate for safeguarding and able to ensure children’s well‑being and dietary needs.
- Collaborative approach, strong communication and mentoring skills.
EEO & Equality Statement: We are an inclusive employer and 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 Cook/Chef in Oxford employer: Childbase Partnership
Childbase Partnership is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the wellbeing of both employees and children. With generous benefits such as annual leave, childcare discounts, and wellbeing support, our team members are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles at Willows Day Nursery in Aylesbury, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Cook/Chef in Oxford
✨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. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Childbase Partnership
Don't be shy about reaching out to Childbase Partnership 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 Cook/Chef in Oxford
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 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
✨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!
