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- Tasks: Prepare and present nutritious meals for children while leading fun cookery sessions.
- Company: Join Bright Horizons, a top-rated nursery known for its caring environment and commitment to child development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 50% childcare discount, flexible hours, 20 days leave plus bank holidays, and wellness perks.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's health while working in a supportive and vibrant team culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking, knowledge of dietary needs, and a passion for nutrition are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a company recognised as a Great Place to Work since 2006!
The predicted salary is between 29140 - 39800 £ per year.
Salary Banding: £29140 – £39,800 per annum (dependent on qualification/s and experience)
Hours: Full time / Mon-Fri / 40 hours
Location: Leatherhead, KT227AA
We are currently recruiting for a passionate Nursery Chef to join our wonderful Bright Horizons Leatherhead Day Nursery and Preschool. Our nursery is situated in Leatherhead, Surrey.
Our 90-place nursery is set within a beautiful, purposely converted setting, consisting of 6 individual home-bases tailored to each age group. The nursery also features a large external play area, where our children can learn and explore!
As a Nursery Chef working with us, you can expect a competitive salary, excellent training and development as well as a caring and passionate place to work.
- Childcare discount of 50% for first child*
- Enhanced parental leave
- 20 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and paid Christmas closure. Ability to also purchase additional leave*
- Pension
- Financial and 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&Cs
The Role
As an Early Years Chef 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 team and parents to encourage a healthy and nutritious diet. You will also have an active role in leading cookery club sessions with the children, and support with other nursery activities, such as BBQs, Fetes, and staff meetings.
What we’re looking for
- Previous experience within a cooking role, in a domestic or commercial property
- Passion for nutrition, and inspiring others in healthy eating
- Ability to demonstrate a sound knowledge of managing different dietary requirements, particularly food allergies
- Food Safety CIEH L2 or above (or equivalent) – this must be passed on day 1 in post
- Sound knowledge of COSHH
- Great communication skills, with colleagues, children, and parents
- Ability to work under pressure
We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all ages and backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants. Please note, due to our sector all roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS.
If you want to make a difference, with a company who has been voted Great Place to Work every year since 2006, apply today!
We look forward to receiving your application!
If you experience any problems, please emaileurope.recruitment@brighthorizons.comand we will be happy to help.
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Nursery Chef employer: MP Training and Recruitment
Contact Detail:
MP Training and Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary requirements and allergies that children may have. This knowledge will not only help you in the role but also show your potential employer that you are proactive and ready to cater to the needs of the children.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community or online groups related to child nutrition and healthy eating. This can provide you with insights and ideas that you can bring to the nursery, demonstrating your passion for inspiring healthy eating habits.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous cooking experiences in detail during the interview. Highlight any specific instances where you successfully managed dietary restrictions or led cooking activities, as this will showcase your relevant skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Show enthusiasm for working in a nursery environment by researching Bright Horizons and their values. Be ready to express how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding child development and nutrition.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Nursery Chef position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match what they are looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous cooking roles you have held, especially those involving children or dietary management. Mention specific examples of how you've catered to different dietary needs.
Show Your Passion for Nutrition: Express your enthusiasm for healthy eating and nutrition in your application. Share any experiences or initiatives where you inspired others to adopt healthier eating habits, particularly in a childcare setting.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, make sure to proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at MP Training and Recruitment
✨Show Your Passion for Nutrition
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for healthy eating and nutrition during the interview. Share any personal experiences or initiatives you've taken to promote healthy eating, especially in a childcare setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Cooking Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous cooking experience in detail. Highlight specific dishes you’ve prepared that cater to different dietary requirements, and be ready to explain how you manage food allergies safely.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you would explain dietary needs to parents and colleagues, and be ready to showcase your teamwork skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as managing a child’s food allergy or leading a cookery club session. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and creativity.