Chef
Role Overview:
Join Our Team at Busy Bees – Leading Nursery Group in the UK
Are you passionate about cooking and providing nutritious meals for young children? As a Chef at Busy Bees, you’ll be a key part of our kitchen team, preparing healthy meals that support children's growth and development. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a nurturing environment where you will contribute to the wellbeing of children while gaining valuable experience in catering within the early years sector.
About Us
Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK and more overseas. We are dedicated to giving every child the best start in life and are proud to have won awards for our workplace culture. At Busy Bees, we ensure that every member of our team feels heard, valued, and nurtured.
Why Work at Busy Bees?We offer a supportive environment that empowers you to create engaging, educational spaces where children can thrive. As part of our team, you’ll be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum, designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners.
Our Charitable Commitment
Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need, we offer fantastic opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children's lives.
About our Nursery
Busy Bees Derby Oakwood, rated "Good" by Ofsted, provides a nurturing environment where your little one can thrive with a capacity of 110 children. Our nursery features a fantastic range of fun-filled activities and engaging resources that ensure children come on leaps and bounds during their time with us.At Busy Bees, we recognize the importance of outdoor play.That's why our large, refurbished garden is divided into three areas catering to different age groups, allowing children to explore their imagination and take safe risks under adult supervision while enjoying the fresh air.Conveniently located on Smalley Drive in Oakwood, our nursery is just a 13-minute drive from Derby City Centre.
For public transport users, there's a bus stop nearby on Hallgate Close serving bus route 26, and another just a 5-minute walk away on Smalley Drive end, serving bus route 32. Free parking is available for staff.The fun doesn’t stop there! Every Tuesday, ‘Super Star Sports’ visits for toddlers and preschoolers, offering engaging football sessions that keep your little one active and entertained.
Busy Bees Benefits- Competitive salary
- Ongoing professional development and career progression
- Our ‘Hive’ benefits and wellbeing hub, with discounts across a huge range of retailers
- Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
- Your birthday off – it’s our gift to you!
- 25% childcare discount
- Enhanced family leave and return to work bonus
- Menopause support through Peppy
- Financial support through Salary Finance
- Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Easy access to your workplace pension through Cushon
- Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
A Celebrating You section showcasing the ways we recognise and reward our valued team members. Plus, a dedicated Grow with Us area sharing the exciting development opportunities and training designed to support you to thrive and grow at Busy Bees.
Role Responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities- Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary needs.
- Oversee kitchen operations ensuring food safety and hygiene compliance.
- Manage kitchen staff and collaborate with regulatory bodies during inspections.
- Maintain kitchen inventory and efficiently manage purchasing.
Required Qualifications:
Ideal Candidate:
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).
- Experience in catering or kitchen operations.
- Empathy and understanding – each child is unique.
If you’re passionate about food and nutrition and maybe you have experience as Chef, an Assistant Chef, a Cook or managed a cafe apply now!