Nursery Chef Assistant – Part Time

About the role

We are looking for a part‑time Nursery Chef Assistant to join our award‑winning nursery in Peckham. Working 11 am‑2 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, you will support the kitchen team and help deliver nutritious meals to children aged 0‑5.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the senior chef in preparing balanced meals for children.
• Maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment, adhering to food‑safety standards.
• Manage stock, order supplies and ensure allergen‑free preparation where required.
• Engage children in cooking‑related activities and promote healthy eating habits.
• Collaborate with nursery staff to coordinate meal times and special dietary needs.
• Monitor and record food waste and portion sizes.
• Support the implementation of the Early Years Chef Academy training.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is used and stored correctly.

Required profile

• Right to work in the United Kingdom.
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm for working with young children.
• Willingness to complete Food Hygiene Level 2 training in the first week (paid by LEYF).
• Ability to work the specified part‑time hours.

Required skills

• Food Hygiene Level 2 (or willingness to obtain it).

What we offer

• Hourly rate of £11.44.
• Additional £1,000 salary uplift after completing the Chef Academy course.
• No evening or weekend shifts.
• Free in‑house training at the Chef Academy.
• 7% employer pension contribution (1% employee).
• 70% discount on childcare fees.
• Up to 35 days annual leave (pro‑rated for part‑time), including bank holidays and birthday.
• Sector‑leading parental leave.
• Access to wellbeing app, shopping discounts, annual conference and team celebration budget.