Apprentice Cook

To work alongside and support the Nursery Cook in the preparation and provision of healthy, balanced and nutritious meals and snacks for children from birth to 5 years.

What you'll do

• To learn how to plan and prepare menus that provide a varied and balanced diet, following current early years nutrition guidance.
• To assist with the preparation of meals and snacks in accordance with individual dietary requirements and allergies, under appropriate supervision.
• To develop an understanding of food allergies and dietary requirements and ensure that instructions provided by the Nursery Cook are followed carefully.
• To learn about safe food preparation, storage and serving procedures.
• To assist with food temperature checks and recording information accurately, as directed by the Nursery Cook.
• To assist with maintaining appropriate food hygiene records, including temperature logs, allergen information and other relevant records.
• To maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and cleanliness at all times and follow appropriate food hygiene procedures.
• To assist with washing crockery, cutlery, utensils and equipment used within the kitchen.
• To support the Nursery Cook in maintaining a clean, safe and organised kitchen environment.

Training

This is a full-time role, working a minimum of 30 hours per week. You will attend Leeds City College Printworks Campus every Wednesday, until you sit your End-Point-Assessments and complete the apprenticeship.

After the apprenticeship

A full-time permanent contract is highly likely upon completion of the apprenticeship.

Skills

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Team working
• Initiative
• Personal hygiene & cleanliness
• Enhanced DBS clearance

Qualifications

• Desired: GCSE, English (grade 4)
• Desired: GCSE, Maths (grade 4)

About the employer

Inspirations Nurseries and Forest School offer a different kind of childcare. Outdoor play, creativity, and child centred learning based on Reggio Emilia and Scandinavian Forest School are our core values.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Production chef (level 2), Catering and hospitality
• Apprenticeship level: Intermediate (level 2)
• Training provider: LUMINATE EDUCATION GROUP
• Expected duration: 1 Year 3 Months
• Hours: 30 hours a week. Working week: Exact working hours TBC at interview stage. However, this is a full-time role Mon-Fri.
• Start date: 26 October 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £12,480 a year