Nursery Cook

At our nursery, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. We follow robust safeguarding procedures in line with current legislation and local guidance. Staff are regularly trained to recognise and respond to signs of all forms of neglect, abuse, extremism and exploitation. Safeguarding is central to everything we do, and safeguarding is the responsibility of every member of our team. We operate strict safer recruitment processes, including enhanced criminal record checks, references, and qualification verification, to ensure all staff are suitable to work with children. We work closely with parents, carers, and external agencies to ensure every child is safe, supported, and protected.

Full copies or all our safeguarding and safer recruitment policies are available in our entrance for all parents, and our management team will be happy to discuss any questions you have about these.

If our parents or staff do have any concerns of a safeguarding nature, we would encourage you to speak to the nursery team, either the nursery manager or the designated safeguarding lead for the nursery.

. Posters are displayed at prominent places around our nursery to ensure all our staff feel confident they can report anything they feel requires further investigation.

Job description:

Nursery Cook

Do you enjoy cooking nutritious meals and making a positive difference to young children’s wellbeing?
We are looking for a reliable, organised, and caring Nursery Cook to join our friendly team. This is a rewarding role where you’ll support children’s health and development by providing balanced, freshly prepared meals in a safe and nurturing nursery environment.

About the Role

As our Nursery Cook, you will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving healthy meals and snacks for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. You will play an important role in supporting children’s dietary needs, promoting healthy eating habits, and ensuring the highest standards of food hygiene and safety are maintained at all times.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Preparing and cooking nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks in line with nursery menus
• Catering for special dietary requirements, allergies, cultural needs, and medical diets
• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen, in line with food safety regulations
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and reducing waste where possible
• Ensuring compliance with Environmental Health, Food Safety, and Health & Safety standards
• Working closely with nursery staff to support children’s individual needs and routines
• Encouraging healthy eating habits and positive mealtime experiences for children

What We’re Looking For

• Experience working as a cook or in a food preparation role (ideally within a nursery, school, or care setting)
• A Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above preferred)
• Knowledge of food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary requirements
• Good organisational skills and the ability to work independently
• A warm, positive attitude and a genuine interest in children’s health and wellbeing
• Understanding of safeguarding and the importance of working safely around children

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a supportive and welcoming nursery team where your contribution is valued. Your role will directly support children’s growth, health, and happiness, helping to create positive foundations for lifelong healthy eating.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Childcare discount 60%
• Company pension
• Employee discounts at high street stores and gym memberships
• Referral programme to earn up to £1,500
• Paycare Medical Cover, Level 1

Work Location: In person

• Working with children : 1 year (required)