Field Chef

Early Years Field Chef – Kent

Salary: £15 - £19 per hour (dependant on qualification/s and experience)

Hours: Part time, 30-35 hours per week, working 5 days

Location: Kent (Bromley, Bexleyheath, Bickley, Canterbury, Orpington, Dartford, West Malling, Maidstone)

About the role

As an Early Years Field Chef, you will travel to nurseries within a region where cover is needed, when the permanent Chef is on annual leave, or at times of sickness or absence.

You will prepare, cook, and present age‑appropriate food for all the children in the nursery, with minimum wastage.

You will ensure all dietary requirements are catered for and clearly communicated to teams and work in partnership with the nursery teams to support the nursery care and education provision.

You will also keep accurate kitchen records, maintain a clean and safe work environment, and support nursery management with food ordering.

Responsibilities

• Travel to nurseries within the specified region to cover absences
• Prepare, cook, and present age‑appropriate meals for children
• Ensure dietary requirements and allergies are managed and communicated
• Maintain accurate kitchen records and a clean, safe work environment
• Support nursery management with food ordering and supply chain tasks

Qualifications & Experience

• Previous experience within a commercial catering role
• Passion for nutrition and inspiring healthy eating habits
• Sound knowledge of managing different dietary requirements, particularly food allergies
• Food Safety CIEH L2 or above (or equivalent) – must be passed on day 1
• Sound knowledge of COSHH
• Excellent communication skills with colleagues, children and parents
• Ability to work under pressure
• Willingness to work across multiple sites and own transport with a clean driving licence

Benefits

• Childcare discount of 50% for first child
• Enhanced parental leave – 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays and paid Christmas closure
• Pension and financial & wellbeing benefits including 24/7 virtual GP appointments, early access to wages and more
• Professional development programme access for every stage of your career, including access to a careers coach
• Shift options: 40 hours over 4 or 5 days, 24 hours over 3 days, or 16 hours over 2 days (subject to T&C's)

Location

Bromley, Bexleyheath, Bickley, Canterbury, Orpington, Dartford, West Malling, Maidstone.

Inclusive Employer Statement

We are an inclusive employer and welcome people of all ages and backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants.

Legal Requirements

All roles are subject to Enhanced DBS checks prior to appointment.

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