Are you a passionate, experienced chef looking for a meaningful role where your skills directly contribute to children's growth and well-being? Join our Derby-based nursery as Temp Head Chef and create delicious, healthy meals that make a lifelong impact. This is your chance to shape daily menus, support a dedicated team, and showcase your culinary leadership in an inspiring educational setting.
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Responsibilities - Lead Nursery Kitchen Operations and Deliver Excellence
Plan, prepare, and serve fresh, nutritious meals for children aged 0-5 years, following nursery guidelines and adhering to statutory dietary standards.
Adapt menus for allergies, intolerances, and special cultural or dietary requirements, ensuring every child is safely catered for.
Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene, and allergen protocols in accordance with current UK standards.
Manage stock levels, order ingredients, and handle supplier communication to guarantee a consistent, high-quality food service.
Lead, train, and motivate kitchen support staff to perform at their best, fostering a positive, inclusive work atmosphere.
Support event catering for nursery celebrations, parental engagement days, and educational activities with creative food ideas.
Keep accurate daily records - from food temperatures to cleaning checklists - and maintain a compliant kitchen at all times.
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About You - Nursery Head Chef Candidate Profile (Derby)
Experienced chef with a strong background in nursery, school, or care kitchen environments, especially with volume catering for young children.
Excellent knowledge of food safety, allergens, and nutritional requirements for early years settings.
Organized, reliable, and communicative, with a warm approach that supports teamwork and the wider nursery community.
Creative and adaptable, able to develop child-friendly meals that are both appealing and wholesome.
Valid Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification (minimum).
Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain).
Right to work in the UK.
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What You'll Enjoy - Temp Nursery Head Chef Benefits in Derby
Competitive hourly rate: 19.61 per hour (paid weekly).
Full-time, family-friendly daytime hours - no late nights or split shifts.
Dynamic, supportive workplace dedicated to childhood learning and well-being.
Free meals while on shift and provided uniform.
Onsite parking and accessible Derby location.
Comprehensive induction and opportunity for ongoing development, plus the chance to make a genuine difference in children's lives.
A commitment to equal opportunities, safety, and staff well-being.
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Apply Now - Temp Head Chef Roles in Derby Children's Nursery Kitchen
Ready to lead a caring, vibrant kitchen and champion healthy eating for the next generation?
Apply today
to join our Derby nursery as Temp Head Chef and help us create mealtimes that children love and families trust.
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, or background. Our nursery values diversity and an inclusive, supportive workplace.
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