Job Description

The chef must hold, at a minimum, the Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate or the equivalent.

Reports to:

Nursery Manager

Location:

Manor House Nursery School, Margate

Role overview

The Nursery Chef is a valued part of the wider Manor House Nursery Group team, responsible for the smooth running of the large nursery kitchen and the provision of healthy, balanced, and nutritious meals for children aged 0-5.

The role combines culinary skill with an understanding of young children's dietary needs, supporting the nursery's ethos of nurturing curiosity, wellbeing, and development. The nursery chef needs the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

Key responsibilities

Kitchen management

Take ownership of the nursery kitchen, ensuring it is maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organisation. Adhere to food hygiene, health and safety, and nursery policies at all times. Work together with the house keeper to carry out daily laundry for nursery school.

Menu planning & cooking

Plan and prepare varied, balanced menus in line with nursery nutritional guidelines. Introduce children to a variety of tastes, textures, and cuisines to support healthy eating habits. Prepare meals, snacks, and special dietary alternatives daily, ensuring portion control appropriate to each age group.

Allergy and dietary management

Ensure all allergy and dietary requirements are strictly adhered to, following children's individual care plans. Maintain accurate records of allergens and communicate clearly with staff regarding children's specific needs.

Team contribution

Work with the Nursery Area Manager to deliver high-quality food provision. Support the nursery in promoting positive food experiences for children, including cooking activities and food-based learning. Participate in staff meetings, training, and compliance audits as required.

Stock & ordering

Manage stock levels, order supplies, and monitor deliveries to ensure fresh, high-quality ingredients are available. Work within budget guidelines while minimising food waste.
Person specification

Passion for cooking fresh, healthy meals for children. Experience working as a chef or cook, cooking in large quantities. Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and allergy management. Strong organisational and time management skills. Ability to work independently and part of a small team
What we offer

The opportunity to play a vital role in children's health and development. Training and development in nutrition, allergy awareness, and early years practice. A warm, inclusive workplace as part of the Manor House House Nursery team.
This job description is intended to give you an indication of the main duties but is not meant to be an exhaustive list.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent 8:00am-14:00pm Mon-Fri, All year round.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: 12.21 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount
Ability to commute/relocate:

Margate CT9 5QX: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person