At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create healthy meals for children and support the Nursery Chef.
- Company: Fennies, a family-run nursery with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Up to £26,436 salary, bonuses, free meals, and 20+ days leave.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and training.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's nutrition and development.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for food and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 22950 - 28050 £ per year.
Location: Fennies Richmond
Salary: Up to £26,436 per year plus potential for quarterly bonuses
Working Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Create healthy, delicious meals that help children grow, thrive and enjoy every day. At Fennies, we know that great nutrition is a key part of early childhood development. As a Kitchen Assistant, you’ll support our Nursery Chef in preparing balanced, nutritious meals in a safe, high-quality kitchen environment.
Why join Fennies?
- Competitive salary and bonus
- Performance-related bonuses
- £500 referral bonus
- Work-life balance
- 20 days annual leave increasing by 1 day for every year of service (up to 25) plus bank holidays
- BUPA Wellbeing Support
- Free daily meals from the Fennies Café
- Summer BBQs, Christmas events and company celebrations
- Recognition and reward through the Fennies Club long service awards
- Full training and support from experienced Catering Managers
- Opportunities to grow with Fennies
About the Role
As a Kitchen Assistant, you’ll support the day-to-day running of the nursery kitchen, helping to create nutritious, balanced meals that support children’s health, development and enjoyment of food. You will:
- Assist with preparing fresh, healthy meals and snacks for children each day
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and cleanliness
- Help with kitchen organisation, cleaning and stock rotation
- Support the Nursery Chef with food preparation and service
- Ensure all allergens and dietary requirements are followed carefully
- Contribute to a smooth and positive mealtime experience for children
Your role is essential in helping create a safe, enjoyable environment where children can develop healthy eating habits.
What we’re looking for
You don’t need previous nursery experience – we’ll provide the training you need. You’re reliable, hard-working and take pride in keeping things organised and running smoothly. We’re looking for someone who is:
- Interested in working in a kitchen or catering environment
- A strong team player who enjoys supporting others
- Organised, efficient and able to work in a fast-paced setting
- Committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene
- Positive, proactive and willing to learn
Previous kitchen experience is helpful but not essential – we’ll provide the support and training you need.
Become part of the Fennies DNA
We’re family-owned and family-run; this guides our culture, our decision-making, and what it feels like to be part of our team. From our supportive culture to our high-quality environments, we’re committed to creating exceptional places to work and learn. Our People Promise inspires us to build the kind of culture that is ambitious, passionate and supportive.
If this sounds like you, or you just want to know more about what it means to be part of the Fennies family, make contact with us today for a chat.
Diversity and Inclusion
At Fennies, we celebrate diversity and believe inclusive teams create stronger learning environments for children. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
Safeguarding
Fennies is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide proof of identity. In line with Safer Recruitment guidance, online searches (including social media) may be conducted for shortlisted candidates.
Nursery Kitchen Assistant in Richmond employer: Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd
Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd is an exceptional employer that values creativity and independence, offering a supportive work culture where your skills as a Decorator can truly shine. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a meaningful impact on our nursery environments across the South East, you will enjoy a fulfilling role that balances flexibility with responsibility. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that prioritises quality and innovation in early years education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Kitchen Assistant in Richmond
✨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 Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd 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 Richmond
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 Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd 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 Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd
✨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!
