ACR Recruitment & Training LTD are looking for a dedicated and skilled individual to join our team as a Nursery Chef. This role involves the preparation and serving of healthy, nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for children in a nursery setting. The successful candidate will work in compliance with Food Safety, Health and Safety, and other policies and procedures to maintain a safe and hygienic catering environment. Occasionally, you may be required to perform other duties or tasks as reasonably requested by the Society.
Key Responsibilities
- Experience in catering for large groups, preferably for children.
- Possess a minimum Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification (or equivalent) with sound knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and COSHH requirements.
- Stay updated on safeguarding issues, identify signs of abuse or neglect, and respond promptly and appropriately.
- Read, understand, and adhere to all relevant policies and procedures.
- Follow company guidelines on menu planning and implement rotational menus.
- Complete all kitchen and food hygiene paperwork as per Society policy.
- Aim for the highest possible outcomes and awards during Environmental Health inspections.
- Accommodate children’s special dietary requirements with strict controls to ensure safe delivery.
- Maintain high standards of safety, security, hygiene, and cleanliness in food preparation and storage areas and personal presentation.
- Collaborate with nursery colleagues to ensure baby meals meet consistency and weaning policy guidelines.
- Prepare fresh meals rather than relying on pre-prepared or convenience food, adhering to rotational menu standards.
- Manage the food budget with the Nursery Manager, ensuring portion control and adequate food quantities for each child.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, parents, and children.
- Be flexible with shifts and working hours to cover meal times based on nursery needs.
- Set up meal trolleys for rooms at appropriate times.
- Keep the kitchen organized, clean, and tidy. Wash dishes and utensils promptly and prepare trolleys for the next meal.
- Ensure soap, towels, and other products are replenished, and use the correct color-coded items as required.
- Report stock shortages to the manager.
- Clean filters and fans on kitchen appliances using appropriate cleaning methods.
- Keep fridges, freezers, and dishwashers clean.
- Put away deliveries of stock, materials, and equipment.
- Launder tea towels and cloths appropriately or dispose of single-use cloths as per guidelines.
- Participate in nursery activities, including training, staff meetings, parent evenings, fundraising events, and volunteering, even outside normal working hours.
- Attend relevant meetings and courses, which may occasionally be scheduled outside nursery hours.
- Prepare refreshments for visitors and assist with catering during nursery events.
- Maintain stocks for children’s cooking sessions and support colleagues with creative cooking ideas.
- Ensure regular removal of waste materials to the designated area and assist the Nursery Manager in arranging waste collection.
- Take reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of others, adhering to accident, incident, and risk assessment procedures.
- Work with the Manager and staff team to uphold the Childcare Group's values (DOES) and support the delivery of Nursery Steering Wheel measures to achieve targets.
About You
- Hold a minimum Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification (or certified equivalent within three years). Candidates with Level 3 or those in the process of completing Level 3 will also be considered.
- A clear DBS is required.
Scope
Reports to:
- Immediate Supervisor: Nursery Manager
- Overall Report: Nursery Manager
Internal Contacts:
- Parents
- Colleagues
- Management Team
- Childcare Head Office
- Midcounties Society Colleagues
External Contacts:
Salary and Schedule
- Pay: Starting from £9.50 per hour
- Schedule:
- 8-hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In-person
If this job description suits your experience and qualifications, and you would like to apply, please contact ACR Recruitment & Training LTD.
Job Types: Permanent, Full-time