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- Tasks: Prepare fresh, healthy meals for children while following our established menu.
- Company: Oaks Nursery is a well-respected childcare provider on the University of Kent campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days’ annual leave and work in a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a positive impact on children's lives in a nurturing setting.
- Qualifications: Must have a level 3 Food Safety qualification and knowledge of allergies.
- Other info: An enhanced DBS check is required; training opportunities available.
The predicted salary is between 24214 - 24214 £ per year.
Oaks Nursery is looking for an experienced Early Years Cook with a passion for preparing fresh meals using fresh ingredients and the ability to cook healthy food from scratch following our established menu. The cook must have a natural warm personality to fit in with our nursery. The right candidate will be up to date with all environmental health guidelines and have awareness of allergies and allergens. You will be willing to complete training and refresh knowledge and will hold a level 3 Food Safety qualification. An enhanced DBS is required.
Oaks Nursery is situated in Parkwood Road on the University of Kent campus, with close links to public transport. We are an established nursery, registered to care for up to 90 children a day with an excellent reputation in childcare. We accommodate children of University and Kent Students’ Union staff, and students. At our last inspection in October 2022, the nursery received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. You will be joining a team of 30 staff comprising of nursery practitioners, kitchen staff and support workers led by a manager, assistant manager, and room supervisors.
If you would like any further information or for an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch with Heidi Firth (Nursery Manager) on 01227 827676.
Closing date: 21/04/2025 23:59
Interview date: 02/05/2025
A full job pack with description and person spec is available on our careers website. To apply please email a CV and covering letter along with a Diversity Monitoring Form available from ksu.co.uk/careers to kentunionrecruitment@kent.ac.uk. Please ensure that you pay particular attention in your application to detailing how you meet the requirements of the person specification. Diversity Monitoring Forms are separated from applications prior to short-listing.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,214.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 21/04/2025
Locations
Early Years Cook employer: Kent Students' Union
Contact Detail:
Kent Students' Union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs and preferences of children, especially in a nursery setting. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to providing healthy meals tailored for young children.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for cooking by preparing a sample menu or dish that aligns with the nursery's ethos. This can be a great conversation starter during your interview and will highlight your creativity and understanding of healthy cooking.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Oaks Nursery and its values thoroughly. Understanding their approach to childcare and nutrition will allow you to align your answers during the interview with their mission, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with food safety and allergen management. Being able to articulate your knowledge and past experiences in these areas will reassure the interviewers of your capability to maintain a safe kitchen environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements for the Early Years Cook position. Pay attention to the need for a level 3 Food Safety qualification and knowledge of allergies.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in cooking, especially in a childcare setting. Include any qualifications related to food safety and mention your ability to prepare healthy meals from scratch.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cooking and working with children. Detail how your skills and experiences align with the nursery's values and the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.
Highlight Your Personality: Since the role requires a warm personality, make sure to convey your interpersonal skills in both your CV and cover letter. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in team environments or interacted positively with children and parents.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Students' Union
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for preparing fresh, healthy meals. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for cooking and how it aligns with the nursery's values.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Safety
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety regulations and environmental health guidelines. Highlight your Level 3 Food Safety qualification and any relevant training you've completed.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working in a team of 30 staff members, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked well with others in previous roles, especially in a kitchen or childcare setting.
✨Prepare for Questions on Allergies and Dietary Needs
Expect questions about how you would handle allergies and dietary restrictions. Be ready to discuss your awareness of allergens and how you would ensure the safety and satisfaction of all children in your care.
