Nursery cook
| Posting date: | 28 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Part time |
| Closing date: | 27 February 2026 |
| Location: | Whaqlley Range , Manchester |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | Sparkling Stars Day Nursery |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | Stars24! |
Summary
As Nursery Cook, you will play a key role in supporting the health, wellbeing, and development of the children in our care by preparing and serving nutritious meals that cater to dietary needs, allergies, and cultural preferences.
You will work collaboratively with the centre team to ensure all food is safe, appealing, and aligned with our healthy eating policy. You will also maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene and safety in accordance with current regulations.
· Prepare and cook wholesome, nutritious meals and snacks for children attending the nursery, following planned weekly menus.
· Ensure all meals meet dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, cultural or religious needs.
· Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene and safety standards, adhering to food safety and health regulations (Safer Food Better Business or equivalent).
· Monitor and manage food stocks, including ordering and basic stock control within budget.
· Keep accurate records of food temperatures, cleaning routines, allergen information, and food hygiene checks.
· Maintain a clean, organised kitchen environment and support centre procedures and policies relating to food, health, and safety.
· Support nursery staff by ensuring meals are delivered on time for service and clean-up is completed appropriately.
Essential:
· Previous experience preparing meals in a professional kitchen or similar setting (nursery, school, care home, etc.).
· Good understanding of food hygiene, safety, and nutrition principles, particularly for young children.
· Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
· Excellent organisational skills and ability to work independently.
· A caring, positive attitude towards children and colleagues.
· Enhanced DBS check (required prior to starting).
What We Offer:
· A supportive, child-centred team environment.
· Opportunity to positively impact children’s wellbeing through healthy eating.
· Part-time role with predictable hours and work-life balance.
· Access to training and development opportunities.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to develop their culinary skills within a supportive team. We welcome applicants who are eager to learn, reliable, and committed to delivering high standards of service.
In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As part of our safer recruitment processes, the successful applicant will be required to complete an Enhanced DBS check.
You will work collaboratively with the centre team to ensure all food is safe, appealing, and aligned with our healthy eating policy. You will also maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene and safety in accordance with current regulations.
· Prepare and cook wholesome, nutritious meals and snacks for children attending the nursery, following planned weekly menus.
· Ensure all meals meet dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, cultural or religious needs.
· Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene and safety standards, adhering to food safety and health regulations (Safer Food Better Business or equivalent).
· Monitor and manage food stocks, including ordering and basic stock control within budget.
· Keep accurate records of food temperatures, cleaning routines, allergen information, and food hygiene checks.
· Maintain a clean, organised kitchen environment and support centre procedures and policies relating to food, health, and safety.
· Support nursery staff by ensuring meals are delivered on time for service and clean-up is completed appropriately.
Essential:
· Previous experience preparing meals in a professional kitchen or similar setting (nursery, school, care home, etc.).
· Good understanding of food hygiene, safety, and nutrition principles, particularly for young children.
· Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
· Excellent organisational skills and ability to work independently.
· A caring, positive attitude towards children and colleagues.
· Enhanced DBS check (required prior to starting).
What We Offer:
· A supportive, child-centred team environment.
· Opportunity to positively impact children’s wellbeing through healthy eating.
· Part-time role with predictable hours and work-life balance.
· Access to training and development opportunities.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to develop their culinary skills within a supportive team. We welcome applicants who are eager to learn, reliable, and committed to delivering high standards of service.
In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As part of our safer recruitment processes, the successful applicant will be required to complete an Enhanced DBS check.