Nursery Chef - Woking

Unimed Trading Ltd; Woking; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery organization is seeking a Nursery Chef to prepare nutritious meals and maintain hygiene standards. The role involves collaborating with a team and adapting meals to individual dietary needs. Candidates should have a strong knowledge of catering for children and relevant qualifications, including a Food Hygiene certificate and Allergen Training. Benefits include competitive salary and career growth opportunities.

Benefits

Performance-related bonuses

Free daily lunches

Career development programmes

Well-being support program

Yearly increase in annual leave

Qualifications

• Strong commitment to preparing nutritious meals.
• Experience in maintaining kitchen hygiene standards.
• Able to collaborate effectively with team members.

Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritious meals for children.
• Collaborate with team for smooth operations.
• Adapt meals to individual dietary needs.
• Mentor kitchen staff on best practices.

Skills

Knowledge of catering for children

Understanding of nutrition legislation

Ability to maintain high standards

L2/L3 Food Hygiene certificate

Completed Allergen Training

Job description

Job Title: Nursery Chef

Location: 1 Tennis Close, Stompond Land, Walton on Thames, KT12 1FN

Salary: Up to £32,000 per annum

Hours: 40 hours, Monday - Friday, 7 am - 4 pm

Reports to: Catering manager

What You'll Be Doing

• Be All In: You bring unwavering commitment to preparing nutritious, well‑balanced meals that support children's health and wellbeing, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and kitchen hygiene.
• Come Together: You lead with thoughtful collaboration, working closely with Kitchen Assistants, Nursery Managers, and the wider team to ensure smooth operations and a positive mealtime experience for children and staff.
• Be Yourself: You demonstrate confident self‑awareness, taking pride in your role, adapting to individual dietary needs, and modelling professionalism and care in every aspect of kitchen life.
• Go Further: You show culinary ambition by continuously improving kitchen practices, mentoring your team, and contributing to innovative, child‑friendly menus that reflect Fennies' values and standards.

Benefits & Perks

• Financial Rewards: Salaries that match or exceed industry standards, reviewed annually. Includes performance‑related bonuses and a £500 referral bonus.
• Incredible Incentives: Regular events like our annual Christmas Party and Summer BBQ, plus daily lunches with a variety of options; completely free!
• Career Growth Opportunities: Targeted talent mapping, professional development programmes, and 1‑to‑1 coaching to help you go further in your role.
• Loyalty Rewards: Yearly increases in annual leave and recognition for your commitment through the Fennies Club, gift cards, and commemorative plaques celebrating your length of service and our "Be All In" spirit.
• Well‑being Focus: Access to our BUPA Employee Assistance Programme for 24/7 mental health and wellbeing support, up to 33 days of annual leave, and childcare discounts available depending on your role.

What You Bring

• Knowledge of catering for children and the latest nutrition legislation.
• Ability to maintain the high standards required for the highest rating from the local council's Environmental Health Department.
• Understanding of all relevant policies and procedures.
• L2/L3 Food Hygiene certificate.
• Completed Allergen Training.

Diversity & Inclusion

At Fennies, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. A diverse workforce brings a wealth of perspectives, driving innovation and excellence. We are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Fennies Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced criminal record check and proof of identity will be required. In line with Safer Recruitment and Keeping Everyone Safe, we also carry out online searches for all shortlisted candidates, including Google and Social Media checks. Any relevant information found may be discussed during the interview process.

Employment Details

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Contract
• Job function: Management and Manufacturing
• Industry: Food and Beverage Manufacturing