Chef in Emberton

We are looking for an inspirational Nursery Chef, with a minimum of Level 2 Food Hygiene, to join our Acorn Nursery at our nursery in Emberton. The nursery is set in a small village just outside Newport Pagnell. Children take regular walks to the local park and around the village. They are also able to benefit from the nursery’s Outdoor Learning Centre. THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION COVERING MATERNITY LEAVE.

We’re proud to be one of the leading childcare providers in Milton Keynes, Northampton and Bedford with over 25 years’ experience who specialise in nature pedagogy and promoting the professional development of our employees. We are really proud to have recently been awarded a Top 20 Day Nurseries group award.

You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, great training and progression opportunities, enhanced pension contributions, and 65% childcare discount. As a not-for-profit organisation, Acorn always puts the needs of the children first, meaning you will be working for a business that cares about more than just profit.

Aims of the Role

• To deliver a healthy, child-centred and nutritionally balanced menu to the children in the nursery, using fresh produce and as little salt, sugar, artificial flavourings and sweeteners as possible. A rolling four-week menu plan is currently in place, which is adapted twice a year according to the seasons.
• To cater for special dietary needs, providing appropriate and nutritious alternative meals for children with allergies, intolerances, and preferences.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and present all food to a high standard in a timely manner, in accordance with the company menu/recipes and individual needs of the setting.
• Ensure all catering activities are carried out in-line with the agreed budget.
• Make suitable adaptations to meals/snacks and liaise with key staff as appropriate; adaptations may be needed for babies and younger children, allergies, intolerances, and/or preferences.
• To purchase all supplies through agreed nominated suppliers, ensuring sufficient orders are made on a weekly basis.
• To follow all company policies and procedures, and complete all relevant operational paperwork.
• To encourage and take part in cooking sessions with the children.
• Ensure all elements of health and safety legislation are complied with, especially regarding safe working practices, hygiene practices, fire procedures and staff training.
• Follow all guidelines and standards set out by Environmental Health Trading Standards.
• Facilitate inspections from regulatory bodies, awarding bodies, and implement any recommendations.
• To attend staff meetings, work closely with other chefs and staff in the setting, and to undertake training as required.
• To undertake any other duties as reasonably requested by the manager.

Benefits

• 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.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Cyclescheme.
• Techscheme.
• Length of Service awards.
• Summer and Christmas parties.
• Pay advances.
• Employee assistance wellbeing programme.