Nursery Cook​/Chef

Job Overview

Join Childbase Partnership as a Nursery Cook at Cedars Day Nursery in Leighton Buzzard (LU7 2PA
). The role supports up to 99 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. It is a permanent position, 37.5 hours per week, with varied shifts Monday‑Friday between 07:30‑18:30. Pay ranges from £12.99‑£15.61 hourly (pro‑rata) or £25,330.50‑£30,439.50 annually.

• Prepare wholesome, healthy meals for young children, including alternatives for allergies and dietary requirements.
• Adhere to a set menu and use fresh ingredients to deliver satisfactory, nutritious food.
• Maintain 5‑star hygiene standards in the kitchen and ensure Food Hygiene training is upheld.
• Understand and apply COSHH, allergens, manual handling, and environmental health legislation.
• Promote healthy eating habits and safeguard children's well‑being through regular meal checks.
• Collaborate with the Nursery Manager to manage the kitchen budget, mentor a Kitchen Assistant, and contribute to nursery profitability.

• Professional catering experience in a childcare or similar setting.
• Ability to cook a variety of dishes from a set menu and adapt to dietary needs.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards, including relevant training.
• Strong organisational and teamwork skills; ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Commitment to safeguarding and safeguarding procedures.

• Generous annual leave: 23 days paid per annum (pro‑rata) rising to 28 days with length of service plus paid bank holidays.
• Work‑life balance:
  Up to 20 additional paid days off annually through Partnership Reward Days.
• Childcare discount: 75% off nursery fees (40% for grandparents) from day one.
• Exclusive partner rewards, qualification bonuses, retail discounts.
• Well‑being support: free meals, mental health and occupational health services, flu jabs, eye care vouchers, free will‑writing service.
• Career development: team inset days, online training, and academy apprenticeships.

We are an inclusive employer and welcome applicants of all ages and backgrounds. We are committed to FREDIE (fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion, and engagement) and will consider any reasonable adjustments required.

Applicants must reside within a commutable distance of the nursery, hold suitable Right to Work in the UK (no visa sponsorship available), and have a DBS enhancement check.