Nursery Cook / Kitchen Assistant

Nourish Our Future: Nursery Cook / Kitchen Assistant Opportunity

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Location: 4 Chads Road, Tilbury RM18 8LA

Contract: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive (Commensurate with experience)

Application Deadline: [28/02/2026]

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Are you a food-passionate professional who believes that healthy meals are the heart of a happy nursery?

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At Helping Hands Day Nursery, we believe that providing nutritious, delicious meals is essential to a child’s development. We are seeking a dedicated Cook or Kitchen Assistant with a Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene qualification to join our Tilbury team and lead our kitchen with care and excellence.

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About Helping Hands Day Nursery

We are more than just a nursery; we are a nurturing community where wellbeing is at the center of everything we do. Our ethos is built on kindness and quality, and that extends to our kitchen. We invest in our staff, ensuring a supportive environment where your hard work is recognized and your contribution to the children's health is highly valued.

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Your Role: Fueling Growth and Joy

As our Cook/Kitchen Assistant, you are responsible for the nutritional heartbeat of the setting. Your daily responsibilities will include:

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• Meal Preparation: Preparing fresh, balanced, and appealing meals and snacks for children of various ages.

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• Dietary Management: Carefully managing allergies, intolerances, and cultural dietary requirements to ensure every child eats safely.

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• Hygiene Excellence: Maintaining an impeccably clean kitchen, following rigorous food safety management systems (HACCP).

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• Record Keeping: Managing food temperatures, stock rotation, and kitchen logs to ensure full compliance with health and safety regulations.

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What You Will Bring

• Qualification: A current Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate (or higher).

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• Experience: Previous experience in a professional kitchen (experience in a school or nursery setting is a major plus).

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• Knowledge: A solid understanding of COSHH, food allergies, and nutritional requirements for young children.

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• Spirit: A reliable, organized approach with a warm personality—you’ll be a key part of our nursery community!

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Why Join the Helping Hands Team?

• A Culture of Care: A truly supportive environment where your wellbeing is prioritized.

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• Professional Growth: Opportunities for further training in nutrition and kitchen management.

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• Competitive Rewards: A generous salary package, pension scheme, and holiday allowance.

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• Meaningful Work: The chance to directly impact the health and habits of the next generation.