Kitchen Assistant

Overview

As a Nursery Kitchen Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting the nursery cook with the preparation and serving of nutritious meals and snacks for children aged 0-5. You will assist with various kitchen duties to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and food safety are maintained.

• Assisting with the preparation and cooking of meals and snacks, following a set menu.
• Helping to prepare fresh ingredients, ensuring they are properly cleaned and stored.
• Serving food to children, ensuring appropriate portion sizes.
• Washing up and cleaning kitchen equipment, utensils, and surfaces to maintain a high standard of cleanliness.
• Ensuring compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations at all times.
• Supporting the cook in accommodating children's dietary needs and allergies.

Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:

• Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don t yet have one, you ll need to cover the cost.
• Be eligible to work in regulated roles – not on the Children s Barred List.
• Successfully complete background and reference checks.

• Experience in a kitchen environment (experience in a nursery, school, or similar setting is a plus).
• A Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or willingness to obtain one).
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• The ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for preparing healthy, nutritious meals for young children.
• A good understanding of food hygiene, safety, and health regulations.

At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

• Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
• Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
• Health & wellbeing support – NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
• A generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off and a wellbeing day