Are you an experienced chef with a passion for preparing nutritious meals and supporting children’s development? Join a well-established group of London nurseries as a Relief Nursery Chef and enjoy a rewarding role with sociable hours, no evenings or weekends, and a host of outstanding benefits.
This is a full-time position with a central London base location and regular travel to other nurseries across the region. Travel expenses beyond your usual commute will be reimbursed.
About the Role:
As a Relief Chef, you’ll be a key member of the nursery team, helping to ensure children receive healthy, balanced meals every day. You’ll work from a designated “home” nursery and provide support to other sites when needed. This is a hands-on role where you’ll also interact with children, encouraging positive attitudes towards food and healthy eating.
You will receive full support and training, including access to a dedicated Chef Academy designed to build your skills in early years catering. You’ll also benefit from a calm, friendly working environment that values your contribution.
What’s on Offer:
- Competitive salary of £31,806.96 per year
- An additional £1,000 salary uplift upon completing in-house Chef Academy (for full-time qualified chefs)
- Sociable working hours – no evenings or weekends
- 70% discount on nursery childcare fees
- Up to 35 days of holiday (including bank holidays, Christmas closure and your birthday off – pro rata for part-time)
- 7% employer pension contribution (with only 1% from you)
- Funded qualifications and continuous professional development
- Generous parental leave and sector-leading employee benefits
- Wellbeing support including access to Headspace app, retail discounts, and funding for team celebrations
What You’ll Need:
- The right to work in the UK
- A Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate or willingness to complete one within your first week (fully funded)
- A proactive attitude and genuine interest in working with children
- Flexibility to travel across multiple nursery sites
- This is more than just a kitchen role – it’s an opportunity to make a real difference in young children’s lives through food. If you’re a skilled chef looking for a role with purpose and balance, we’d love to hear from you.