Nursery Cook & Housekeeper
Location: Rainbow Nursery, The Mansion, Fore St, Totnes, TQ9 5RP
Hours: 30 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–3:00 pm)
Contract: Permanent
Reports to: Nursery Lead
Accountable to: Childcare Services Manager & Board of Trustees
Salary & BenefitsSalary £19,843
Benefits:
• Friendly, supportive team environment
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• Staff discounts on childcare services
• Paid holidays and pension scheme
About UsRainbow Nursery is a vibrant, welcoming setting in the heart of Totnes, caring for up to 56 children under the age of five. We pride ourselves on creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where healthy eating and sustainability are at the heart of our ethos.
Role OverviewWe are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Nursery Cook & Housekeeper to join our team. This is a hands-on role responsible for preparing nutritious, home-cooked meals for children, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and supporting the smooth running of domestic services within the nursery.
Key ResponsibilitiesMeal Planning & Preparation• Plan and prepare balanced, seasonal menus for children under 5, following Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) dietary guidance.
• Cook and serve breakfast, lunch, and light tea daily, ensuring meals are healthy, varied, and appealing.
• Cater for allergies and dietary requirements, ensuring strict adherence to food safety and allergen protocols.
Kitchen & Stock Management• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen in line with Safer Food Better Business guidelines.
• Manage stock levels, place weekly online grocery orders, and ensure correct food storage and rotation (FIFO).
Housekeeping & Laundry• Oversee laundry duties, including washing, drying, and storing items.
• Ensure dining areas, highchairs, and equipment are cleaned and sanitised after each use.
Collaboration & Engagement• Work closely with mealtime assistants and childcare staff to ensure smooth service.
• Engage children in simple food-related activities and promote healthy eating habits.
What We’re Looking ForEssential:
• Experience preparing meals for groups, ideally young children.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen health & safety (training provided if needed).
• Ability to plan menus, work to a budget, and manage time effectively.
• A warm, approachable manner and ability to work as part of a team.
Desirable:
• Food hygiene certificate and/or relevant catering qualification.
• Experience in a commercial or childcare catering environment.
• First aid qualification.
Why Join Us?• Be part of a friendly, supportive team in a community-focused nursery.
• Opportunity to make a real difference to children’s health and wellbeing.
• Ongoing training and development provided.
To ApplyA full application form will be required during the recruitment process.
Click the APPLY NOW button below
For more information contact us
Email: [email protected]
Address: Daisy and Rainbow Childcare, Daisy Play Centre, Pathfields, Totnes, TQ9 5TZ
Start Date: November 2025
Location: Rainbow Nursery, The Mansion, Fore St, Totnes, TQ9 5RP
Hours: 30 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–3:00 pm)
Contract: Permanent
Reports to: Nursery Lead
Accountable to: Childcare Services Manager & Board of Trustees
Salary & BenefitsSalary £19,843
Benefits:
• Friendly, supportive team environment
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• Staff discounts on childcare services
• Paid holidays and pension scheme
About UsRainbow Nursery is a vibrant, welcoming setting in the heart of Totnes, caring for up to 56 children under the age of five. We pride ourselves on creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where healthy eating and sustainability are at the heart of our ethos.
Role OverviewWe are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Nursery Cook & Housekeeper to join our team. This is a hands-on role responsible for preparing nutritious, home-cooked meals for children, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and supporting the smooth running of domestic services within the nursery.
Key ResponsibilitiesMeal Planning & Preparation• Plan and prepare balanced, seasonal menus for children under 5, following Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) dietary guidance.
• Cook and serve breakfast, lunch, and light tea daily, ensuring meals are healthy, varied, and appealing.
• Cater for allergies and dietary requirements, ensuring strict adherence to food safety and allergen protocols.
Kitchen & Stock Management• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen in line with Safer Food Better Business guidelines.
• Manage stock levels, place weekly online grocery orders, and ensure correct food storage and rotation (FIFO).
Housekeeping & Laundry• Oversee laundry duties, including washing, drying, and storing items.
• Ensure dining areas, highchairs, and equipment are cleaned and sanitised after each use.
Collaboration & Engagement• Work closely with mealtime assistants and childcare staff to ensure smooth service.
• Engage children in simple food-related activities and promote healthy eating habits.
What We’re Looking ForEssential:
• Experience preparing meals for groups, ideally young children.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen health & safety (training provided if needed).
• Ability to plan menus, work to a budget, and manage time effectively.
• A warm, approachable manner and ability to work as part of a team.
Desirable:
• Food hygiene certificate and/or relevant catering qualification.
• Experience in a commercial or childcare catering environment.
• First aid qualification.
Why Join Us?• Be part of a friendly, supportive team in a community-focused nursery.
• Opportunity to make a real difference to children’s health and wellbeing.
• Ongoing training and development provided.
To ApplyA full application form will be required during the recruitment process.
Click the APPLY NOW button below
For more information contact us
Email: [email protected]
Address: Daisy and Rainbow Childcare, Daisy Play Centre, Pathfields, Totnes, TQ9 5TZ
Start Date: November 2025