Nursery Kitchen Assistant

Available Positions Common positions in our nursery locations include:

• Nursery Practitioner: Provides high-quality care and education, creating a nurturing and stimulating environment.
• Room Leader: Oversees daily operations of a specific classroom or age group, ensuring curriculum implementation and meeting all children’s needs.
• Nursery Manager: Leads nursery teams, responsible for overall management, staff supervision, budget administration, and regulatory compliance.
• Administrative Staff: Supports nursery operations through reception duties, enrollment, billing, and family communication.
• Kitchen Staff: Prepares and serves nutritious meals and snacks, promoting healthy eating habits and maintaining safety.

Key responsibilities: as a keyworker, ensure every individual child’s needs are met, including supporting parents with any SEND/ASL needs. Own observation, assessments and planning for key children in line with EYFS, provide developmentally challenging next steps. Encourage and praise children’s development and achievements. Have fun while delivering high-quality care.

Position Overview: As an Apprentice Nursery Practitioner, you will rotate across various nursery rooms and participate in our Forest School program. This hands-on experience will allow you to develop a comprehensive understanding of early years education and hone practical skills. Through a structured apprenticeship, you will work towards a Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Practitioner/Educator qualification.

Key Responsibilities: Participate in the daily care and supervision of children, ensuring their safety and wellbeing at all times. Assist in planning and implementing age-appropriate activities and experiences that promote learning and development. Collaborate with experienced educators to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Engage in reflective practice and seek feedback to continuously improve your practice. Complete assigned coursework and assessments as part of your apprenticeship training. Embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth in early years.

Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent. Passion for working with young children and supporting their holistic development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a team. Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Benefits: Comprehensive training and support throughout apprenticeship. Opportunity to gain practical experience in all areas of early years education, including Forest School. Pathway to achieving a Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification. Potential for career advancement within the organization, including managerial and specialised roles. Full-time position with 40-hour week, 20% dedicated to learning.

Key Responsibilities: Plan weekly menus that are balanced, nutritious, and appealing to children. Prepare meals and snacks in accordance with food safety and hygiene regulations. Ensure all ingredients are fresh, locally sourced whenever possible. Accommodate individual dietary needs, allergies, and cultural preferences. Maintain cleanliness and organisation in the nursery kitchen, including equipment and storage areas. Monitor food inventory and place orders for supplies as needed. Collaborate with nursery staff to promote healthy eating habits and provide nutrition education. Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required.

Qualifications: Proven experience as a chef or cook, preferably in a childcare or similar setting. Knowledge of nutrition and dietary requirements for young children. Familiarity with food safety and hygiene regulations. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. Excellent organisational and time-management skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Certification in food safety and hygiene (e.g., Food Handler’s Certificate) is preferred.

Benefits: Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Opportunities for professional development and training. Positive and supportive work environment. Contribution to the health and wellbeing of young children.