At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in the kitchen, preparing healthy meals for children and ensuring a safe environment.
- Company: Join MiChild, a leading provider of early years education with a compassionate ethos.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, childcare discounts, wellness events, and up to 33 days annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for professional growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen, food hygiene certificate, and strong teamwork skills required.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 £ per hour.
Location: 168 Bramhall Moor Lane, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 5BN
Position: Nursery Chef
Employer: MiChild Group
Salary: From £12.25/ph
“Small Steps. Giant Leaps.”
Who Are We?
At MiChild, we are dedicated to being a leading provider of early years education, where passionate and highly trained professionals nurture every child’s full potential. Our ethos is rooted in compassion, excellence, and ambition—values that inspire everything we do.
About MiChild at Stepping Stones Nursery
Stepping Stones Nursery, proudly rated as “Good” by Ofsted, has a capacity of 57 children and has been part of the MiChild Family since 2020. Located in Hazel Grove, near Stepping Hill Hospital, our nursery serves both public and hospital staff families.
We have recently completed a full refurbishment, and soon we will include a hub for staff training and development across the MiChild Group. Our nursery features three newly refurbished large playrooms and an expansive garden area, accessible from all three rooms. This outdoor space offers our children and staff countless opportunities for engaging in outdoor learning activities, allowing us to immerse ourselves in imaginative play—like baking a cake in the mud kitchen or exploring our five senses through full-body sensory play.
Conveniently situated off Bramhall Moor Lane, we are just a 15-minute drive from Stockport Town Centre. For those using public transport, we are on multiple bus routes, with one route dropping you off within a 10-minute walk of the nursery. If you're traveling by train, Woodsmoor station is also within walking distance. Additionally, we have car parking facilities available for drivers.
During breaks, you may want to take a walk. Within a short distance, you can easily access three different gyms and shops, including SPAR and Morrisons.
MiChild Benefits
- Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience
- Joining bonuses for a variety of roles
- 80% childcare discount (from day one) and 10% referral discount for friends and families
- Wellbeing drop-in sessions and counselling service
- Team Building & Annual Employee awards ceremony for all staff
- Wellness Events/Days
- Attendance Incentives/Bonuses - Vouchers/ Gift Cards and up to £1,500 of holiday vouchers
- Exclusive access to MiChild Learning hub and Mi-Learning Lounge for continuous learning and development
- Up to 33 days annual leave (including a special birthday off and Christmas week closure)
- Celebration of Anniversaries
- Paid uniform and staff meals provided
What We’re Looking For
Please note the hours for this role are 1pm- 4pm (Monday to Friday). There will however be a degree of flexibility between Dec 2025 -Sept 2026 that we can provide more hours between the hours of 9am and 1pm. After this time the successful candidate would then work alongside our main cook from Sept 2026.
- The successful candidate must have previous experience within a working kitchen environment
- Demonstrable experience as a skilled Cook ideally in a School or Nursery setting
- Hold a Food Hygiene certificate as a minimum
- Excellent culinary skills
- Attention to detail
- Strong teamwork skills are essential
- Working on your own initiatives
Safeguarding & Compliance
MiChild is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to:
- Enhanced DBS check
- Satisfactory employment references
- Proof of Right to Work in the UK (MiChild is currently unable to offer VISA sponsorship)
- Verification of relevant qualifications
Equality & Inclusion
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment for all our children and staff—regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation.
Ready to Make a Difference and join the MiChild Family? Be part of a supportive, award-winning nursery group where your passion and professionalism are recognised, developed, and celebrated.
Kitchen Assistant - Stepping Stones Nursery in Stockport employer: MIChild Group
At MiChild Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment for our Supply Early Years Educators/Assistants at Oberlin Street Nursery. With competitive salaries, generous childcare discounts, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing and professional development, we foster a culture of support and recognition. Our commitment to inclusivity and community engagement makes us a rewarding place to work, where you can truly make a difference in the lives of children and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant - Stepping Stones Nursery in Stockport
✨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 MIChild Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to MIChild Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to MIChild Group 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 Kitchen Assistant - Stepping Stones Nursery in Stockport
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 MIChild Group 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 MIChild Group
✨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!
