Nursery Cook / Chef

About the Role

Join Childbase Partnership and be part of something extraordinary at our brand new nursery (opened in May 2026). We are looking for a Nursery Cook to prepare and cater food for up to 124 children aged 6 weeks-5years old.

Location: Garsington Road Day Nursery, Cowley, Oxford (OX42DQ). Contract: Permanent 37.5hours/week 52weeks/year. Working pattern: Varied shifts Monday Friday between07:30and18:30. Salary: £25,330.50-£31,200 per annum (pro rata) or £12.99-£16.00 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Prepare wholesome, healthy meals and cater to a set menu using fresh ingredients, offering suitable alternatives for children with allergies and dietary requirements.
• Maintain 5 star hygiene standards by applying knowledge of COSHH, allergens, manual handling, environmental health legislation, and Food Hygiene training.
• Support safeguarding and promote healthy eating to children, ensuring their well being and dietary needs are met.
• Manage the kitchen budget, build respectful relationships with colleagues, children and parents, and lead/mentor your Kitchen Assistant.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Professional catering experience, with ability to prepare a range of foods from a set menu.
• Strong attention to detail, knowledge of COSHH, allergens, manual handling and environmental health legislation, plus Food Hygiene training.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and commitment to promote child welfare.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to operate within the nursery financial context.
• Must reside within a commutable distance of the nursery, hold suitable Right to Work in the UK, and pass a DBS check (Enhanced).

Benefits

• 23 days paid leave per annum (pro rata), rising to 28 days with length of service; plus paid bank holidays.
• Up to 20 paid days off each year via the Partnership Reward Days incentive.
• 75% childcare discount (40% for grandparents) at any Childbase nursery from day one.
• Long service rewards, qualification bonuses, retail discounts.
• Well being support: free meals, mental health and occupational health support, flu jabs, eye care vouchers, and a free will writing service.
• Career development: team inset days, online training, apprenticeships through our academy.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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