At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals for children while ensuring dietary needs are met.
- Company: Join Acorn Nursery, a leading childcare provider with over 25 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 65% childcare discount, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunity for permanent position and professional development in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's nutrition in a fun, nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Food Hygiene certification and passion for child-centred cooking.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for an inspirational Nursery Chef, with a minimum of Level 2 Food Hygiene, to join our Acorn Nursery at our nursery in Emberton. The nursery is set in a small village just outside Newport Pagnell. Children take regular walks to the local park and around the village. They are also able to benefit from the nursery’s Outdoor Learning Centre. THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION COVERING MATERNITY LEAVE. THIS COULD BECOME A PERMANENT POSITION IF ABLE TO TRAVEL TO OTHER NURSERY SETTINGS.
We’re proud to be one of the leading childcare providers in Milton Keynes, Northampton and Bedford with over 25 years’ experience who specialise in nature pedagogy and promoting the professional development of our employees. We are really proud to have recently been awarded a Top 20 Day Nurseries group award. You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, great training and progression opportunities, enhanced pension contributions, and 65% childcare discount. As a not-for-profit organisation, Acorn always puts the needs of the children first, meaning you will be working for a business that cares about more than just profit.
Aims of the Role
- To deliver a healthy, child-centred and nutritionally balanced menu to the children in the nursery, using fresh produce and as little salt, sugar, artificial flavourings and sweeteners as possible. A rolling four-week menu plan is currently in place, which is adapted twice a year according to the seasons.
- To cater for special dietary needs, providing appropriate and nutritious alternative meals for children with allergies, intolerances, and preferences.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare and present all food to a high standard in a timely manner, in accordance with the company menu/recipes and individual needs of the setting.
- Ensure all catering activities are carried out in-line with the agreed budget.
- Make suitable adaptations to meals/snacks and liaise with key staff as appropriate; adaptations may be needed for babies and younger children, allergies, intolerances, and/or preferences.
- To purchase all supplies through agreed nominated suppliers, ensuring sufficient orders are made on a weekly basis.
- To follow all company policies and procedures, and complete all relevant operational paperwork.
- To encourage and take part in cooking sessions with the children.
- Ensure all elements of health and safety legislation are complied with, especially regarding safe working practices, hygiene practices, fire procedures and staff training.
- Follow all guidelines and standards set out by Environmental Health Trading Standards.
- Facilitate inspections from regulatory bodies, awarding bodies, and implement any recommendations.
- To attend staff meetings, work closely with other chefs and staff in the setting, and to undertake training as required.
- To undertake any other duties as reasonably requested by the manager.
Working at Acorn
- Payscales that are competitive, transparent and reviewed annually.
- 65% childcare discount - Pro rata according to contracted hours.
- Generous family leave.
- Christmas closure.
- 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays (and the option to buy more).
- 4 dedicated training days and individual development plans.
- Enhanced pension scheme.
- Cyclescheme.
- Techscheme.
- Length of Service awards.
- Summer and Christmas parties.
- Pay advances.
- Employee assistance wellbeing programme.
Nursery Chef in Olney employer: Only Chefs Ltd
Acorn Nursery is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive work environment where the well-being of both children and staff is prioritised. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including a 65% childcare discount, and a strong commitment to professional development, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to a meaningful cause. Located in the picturesque village of Emberton, the nursery provides a unique opportunity to engage with nature pedagogy and foster a love for learning in young children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Chef in Olney
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's vibe! Visit the Acorn Nursery if you can, chat with staff, and soak up the atmosphere. This will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Bring along a sample dish or two that aligns with their healthy, child-centred menu. This not only demonstrates your cooking abilities but also your understanding of their nutritional goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn or local community groups. They might share insights about the nursery culture or even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Acorn family and ready to contribute to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Chef in Olney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your culinary skills and experience in your application. We want to see how you can create healthy, child-friendly meals that cater to various dietary needs.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Nursery Chef role. Mention your Level 2 Food Hygiene certification and any relevant experience with children.
Be Personable:We love a friendly vibe! Use a warm and approachable tone in your written application. Show us your passion for working with children and how you can contribute to our nurturing environment.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Only Chefs Ltd
✨Know Your Menu
Familiarise yourself with the current rolling four-week menu and be ready to discuss how you would adapt it for different dietary needs. Show your passion for creating healthy, child-centred meals that align with the nursery's ethos.
✨Highlight Your Hygiene Knowledge
Make sure to mention your Level 2 Food Hygiene certification and any relevant experience. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure food safety and hygiene in your kitchen practices, as this is crucial for a role in a nursery setting.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with other staff members. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before, especially in a kitchen environment, and how you can contribute to a positive atmosphere at Acorn Nursery.
✨Engage with the Kids
Be ready to talk about your experience with children and how you would involve them in cooking sessions. Highlight any creative ideas you have for making cooking fun and educational, which aligns with the nursery's focus on outdoor learning and nature pedagogy.
