KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Weekly menu planning, taking into consideration all dietary requirements and operating within the Early Learning School nutritional framework.
• Daily preparation of meals (morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and snacks).
• Close monitoring of special dietary requirements.
• Ensure all dietary requirements are clearly documented and communicated to staff.
• Manage ingredient and stock inventories to ensure supplies are always on hand.
• Observe strict hygiene and food safety protocols in the preparation, handling, serving, and clearing of food.
• Wash/sterilise dishes in main kitchen and return to rooms.
• Maintain positive interactions with staff, children, and families/whanau at all times.
• Follow all health and safety, hygiene, and centre policies and procedures.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience cooking in an early childhood or school kitchen setting is preferred.
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or a recognised trade qualification)
• Current Food Safety Supervisor certificate (or willingness to obtain before commencing)
• Strong understanding of allergy management and safe food handling practices in line with Australian Dietary Guidelines and Get Up & Grow (or willingness to learn)
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Strong ethical and moral value and ability to meet deadlines.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Reliability: Consistently dependable and punctual, ensuring that meal preparation and kitchen tasks are completed on time.
• Enthusiasm: A positive attitude and eagerness to contribute to the team, making the kitchen environment pleasant and productive.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in following food safety standards and hygiene practices, ensuring a clean and safe kitchen.
• Team Player: Works well with others, supporting the chef and collaborating with educators to meet the children's dietary needs.
• Adaptability: Able to handle the dynamic environment of an early learning school, adjusting to changing tasks and priorities efficiently.
• Personable: Warm and engaging personality, open to meeting and speaking with parents.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) or the ability to obtain one.
• First Aid Certificate. (desirable)

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.