Nursery Chef

Nursery Chef / Nursery Cook (Early Years) – Multiple Roles Across the North

Locations: Multiple sites across the North of England (Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire, Yorkshire & North East)
Hours: Part-time and full-time options available (typical part-time pattern: Mon–Fri, 1–5pm / 20 hrs).
Pay: Up to £12.21 per hour (site dependent) + benefits
Contract: Permanent and fixed-term roles available
Start: ASAP (interviews ongoing)

About the role

Our client is seeking warm, organised and creative Nursery Chefs/Cooks to bring genuine culinary care to early years settings. You’ll plan and prepare fresh, nutritious, allergy-aware meals and snacks that introduce little ones to a variety of flavours — all while keeping the kitchen compliant, efficient and sparkling.

What you’ll do

• Plan balanced, seasonal menus in line with dietary needs, allergies and cultural requirements.
• Cook fresh, child-friendly meals daily (think colourful veg, fun presentation, and nutritious portions).
• Maintain top-tier food safety & hygiene standards (HACCP, temperature logs, cleaning schedules).
• Manage stock, budget and supplier relationships; minimise waste and champion sustainability.
• Work closely with nursery leaders to support mealtimes as a positive, social part of the day.
• Keep accurate records and ensure full compliance with safeguarding and food regulations.

What you’ll bring

• Professional cooking experience (nursery/school catering preferred).
• Food Hygiene / Food Safety certification (Level 2+ preferred).
• Strong understanding of allergen management and special diets.
• Menu planning skills, great organisation and calm under pressure.
• A team-player mindset and a genuine love of cooking for children.
• Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain) and Right to Work in the UK.

What’s on offer

• Competitive hourly rate (up to £12.21/hr, site dependent).
• Supportive teams, paid breaks (where offered), company benefits and pension (site dependent).
• Regular peer support and opportunities to share best practice across sites.
• Real impact — help to build healthy habits and joyful mealtimes for little ones.

Locations & patterns

Roles are available across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire, Yorkshire and the North East. Patterns include part-time (e.g., 1–5pm, Mon–Fri) and full-time depending on site needs.