Nursery Chef

Nursery Chef (Temporary Maternity Cover - Potential Temp to Perm)
Location: Emberton, near Newport Pagnell

Pay Rate: £13.50 - £15.50 per hour

Hours: Temporary Position (Maternity Cover)

Potential: Opportunity to become permanent for candidates able to travel to other nursery settings

We are currently recruiting for an experienced and passionate Nursery Chef to join a well-established and highly regarded nursery setting in Emberton. This is an excellent opportunity for a chef who enjoys creating nutritious, child-focused meals in a rewarding childcare environment.

The nursery is based in a beautiful village setting just outside Newport Pagnell and offers children access to outdoor learning experiences, local walks, and nature-based activities.

This role would suit someone who is organised, caring, creative with menus, and confident managing dietary requirements and food safety standards within a nursery environment.

Essential Requirements
Applicants must have:

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  Enhanced DBS (or willing to obtain one)

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  Food Hygiene Level 2 minimum

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  Allergen awareness training/experience

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  Safer eating & choking hazards training/experience

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  Minimum 1 year chef experience

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  Experience catering for dietary requirements and allergies preferred

The Role
As Nursery Chef, you will be responsible for delivering healthy, balanced, and nutritious meals for children, ensuring all food is prepared to a high standard while meeting dietary and allergy requirements.

You will work from a seasonal rolling menu using fresh ingredients and support the nursery's commitment to healthy eating and child wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

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  Prepare and present nutritious meals and snacks to a high standard

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  Cater for allergies, intolerances, and individual dietary requirements

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  Follow nursery menus, recipes, and portion guidance

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  Maintain excellent food hygiene and kitchen safety standards

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  Ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Food Safety regulations

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  Manage kitchen stock and place weekly food orders with approved suppliers

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  Work within agreed catering budgets

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  Complete all required kitchen documentation and operational paperwork

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  Support cooking activities and engagement sessions with children where appropriate

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  Attend staff meetings and complete ongoing training as required

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  Work closely with nursery staff and management to support children's wellbeing

About the Nursery
This nursery is part of a respected childcare group with over 25 years' experience across Milton Keynes, Northampton, and Bedford. The organisation is known for its strong focus on child development, outdoor learning, and staff progression, and has recently received a Top 20 Day Nurseries Group Award.

The team is passionate about creating nurturing environments where children thrive, and where staff feel valued and supported.

What We're Looking For
We are seeking someone who is:

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  Reliable and organised

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  Passionate about healthy eating for children

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  Calm and professional under pressure

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  Knowledgeable about allergens and safe eating practices

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  Able to work independently and manage a busy kitchen environment

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  Friendly, approachable, and a strong team player

If you are an experienced chef looking for a rewarding role within a childcare setting, we would love to hear from you.