22/09/2026
Cook- Nursery-Barnet
Contract: Permanent, year round position
Setting: Nursery
Working Pattern: Mon - Friday: 8.30 am - 5.00 pm
Salary: up to £13 per hour dependent on qualifications and experience.
Location: London Borough of Barnet
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Cook to join a lovely nursery in Barnet. You must be able to craft wholesome, nutritious mouth-watering dishes from the ground up and expertly accommodate dietary restrictions, including allergies and special diets. The role includes manual tasks such as lifting and carrying food supplies, meals and equipment. Must be aware of the health and hygiene protocols of a professional kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
Meal Preparation and Planning
Plan and prepare from scratch balanced meals and snacks for children
Adhere to dietary guidelines, specific dietary needs and allergies.
Develop and rotate menus to provide variety and nutrition.
Collaborate with day-care/nursery staff to incorporate educational and cultural themes into meal planning.
Be highly organised and able to work autonomously to manage all aspects of the kitchen.
Order and manage kitchen inventory, ensuring ingredients are fresh and supplies are adequate.
Keep accurate records of food purchases, usage, and meal counts.
Health and Safety
Adhere to all nursery policies and procedures including: health, safety, security, confidentiality, and safeguarding responsibilities.
Conduct risk assessment and management per policies and procedures.
Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, ensuring all food safety and sanitation standards are met.
Ensure compliance with all health department regulations and licensing requirements.
Respond to accidents, injuries, and emergencies.
Supervise meals and mealtimes where appropriate, and assist in the preparation of babies’ bottles and meals.
Ensure that the allergy and dietary requirements of all children within the nursery are adhered to.
Conduct daily health and safety checks of the room and equipment.
Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead.
Collaboration
Work collaboratively with colleagues to create a cohesive team environment.
Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and continuous professional development.
Maintain accurate records and share information appropriately to meet children's and the nursery’s needs.
Be flexible to changing circumstances or needs in the Nursery.
Qualifications and Experience:
Maths & English Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE Grade C or above.
Hold proven experience in a day care, school, or similar environment of cooking for children aged 3 months to 5 years.
Hold proven experience in catering to and managing special dietary requirements and food allergies.
Current First Aid certification.
Current Safeguarding certification.
Current COSHH certification.
Current Food and Hygiene certification.
Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to apply for one).
If you are passionate about nutrition and enjoy working with children, we would love to hear from you!
Send your cv [email protected]
07587665225
