Job Description

At Land Ahoy, we believe in providing nourishing, fresh, wholesome food for all our children on a daily basis. Our nursery provides a unique indoor/outdoor learning environment for children aged 3 to 12, where mealtimes are a key part of our nurturing and educational ethos.

Role Purpose

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic

Cook

to join our team and take responsibility for creating nutritious, balanced meals for our children. The successful candidate will design weekly menus, prepare snacks, lunches and teas in line with the Setting the Table guidance (training will be provided), and ensure a clean, safe kitchen environment at all times.

Key Responsibilities

Plan and create weekly seasonal menus, ensuring meals are varied, well-balanced and meet children's dietary needs. Follow the Setting the Tablenutritional guidance for early years. Prepare and cook healthy snacks, lunches, and teas for preschool and school-aged children. Work collaboratively with the team to provide a positive mealtime experience, encouraging independence and good eating habits. Ensure excellent hygiene and cleanliness in all food preparation and storage areas. Maintain appropriate records for food safety, allergy management, and cleaning schedules. Develop weekly shopping lists and manage stock control, liaising with the management team. Support children during mealtimes, promoting table manners and social interaction. Comply with all food hygiene, health & safety, and infection control standards. Cater for individual dietary requirements including allergies, intolerances, and cultural preferences.

Person Specification

Essential:

Relevant catering qualification (e.g. Elementary/Intermediate Food Hygiene, SVQ in Professional Cookery, or equivalent) Proven experience working in a kitchen environment, ideally within a childcare or educational setting. Knowledge of healthy eating principles for children. Awareness of food allergies, dietary requirements, and food safety practices. Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan ahead and multitask. A genuine interest in working with children and supporting their development. Friendly, approachable, and confident communicator.

Desirable:

Experience planning menus for young children. Familiarity with Setting the Tableguidance. Paediatric first aid and/or food allergen awareness training

Training & Support

Training will be provided on the Setting the Table document and our specific nursery policies. The successful candidate will be supported in integrating into our nurturing team and encouraged to contribute to the holistic care and wellbeing of the children.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From 12.30 per hour

Expected hours: 15 - 20 per week

Benefits:

Bereavement leave Childcare Employee discount Free parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Experience:

cooking: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 18/07/2025
Expected start date: 21/08/2025