Nursery Cook

Please note that our client DOES NOT offer Tier 2 Sponsorship

Nursery Cook

£22,750–£25,500 (depending on hours worked) | 30–40 hours per week

Our client, a warm and welcoming early years setting, is seeking a passionate and reliable Nursery Cook to join their team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys creating healthy, child-friendly meals and wants to play a vital role in a nurturing environment that supports children’s growth and wellbeing.

Working closely with nursery staff, the cook will be responsible for preparing nutritious, delicious meals for children under the age of five, including babies—contributing to a safe, happy, and thriving setting for all.

The Nursery Cook will take ownership of the kitchen and all food-related duties, ensuring meals meet children’s nutritional needs and any specific dietary requirements. The role involves much more than just cooking—it requires careful planning, excellent hygiene standards, and a true appreciation for the importance of mealtime in early development.

What We’re Looking For

To thrive in this role, candidates should bring:

• Previous experience working as a cook, ideally in a childcare or similar setting

• A minimum Level 2 qualification in Catering and Food Hygiene certificate

• A caring and flexible attitude, with a genuine desire to support children’s health and wellbeing

• A strong understanding of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen management

• The ability to work independently and take initiative

Why Join the Team?

This nursery service values its people as much as it does the children they care for. Staff are supported and appreciated with a range of benefits, including:

• Wellbeing support and employee programme

• Discounted childcare places

• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

• Long service awards to celebrate your commitment

• A positive, inclusive workplace where your skills and care make a real difference

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh, balanced, and well-presented meals and snacks for children and babies, based on planned menus

• Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and food hygiene, including daily food temperature checks and kitchen safety logs

• Carefully manage and adapt to Special Dietary Needs, including allergies, intolerances, cultural preferences, and vegetarian diets

• Follow food safety regulations and best practices, including infection control, COSHH, RIDDOR, and safer food guidelines

• Collaborate with the Nursery Manager when updating or developing new menus

• Ensure the Safer Food, Better Business file is maintained daily

• Keep the kitchen running smoothly with great organisation and time management

Reference: WILL135536/EC

INDCHI