Centre Cook - New Plymouth

About the Company At Lollipops Aubrey Street, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming culture and maintaining strong connections with our community and whanau. Our center is designed to support the growth and development of our tamariki, with vast outdoor areas featuring real grass. We are dedicated to creating joyful and enriching environments where children can thrive. About the Role We are seeking a motivated Centre Cook to join our team in a part-time capacity, working 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing delicious and nutritious meals for our tamariki under the age of five, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment. As a Centre Cook, you will play a vital role in promoting healthy eating habits and providing a positive mealtime experience for our tamariki. You will have the opportunity to design an exciting and nutritious menu that our children will enjoy, preparing food with care and love. Our supportive team and a wider network of other Centre Cooks will be available to assist you in this endeavor. Key Responsibilities Meal Preparation: You will cook healthy meals and snacks in accordance with the centre’s menu and dietary guidelines. Menu Planning: Collaborating with the Centre Manager and staff, you will create seasonal menus that cater to children's nutritional needs while considering allergies. Food Safety: It is essential to adhere to strict food safety and hygiene protocols, including proper food storage and handling practices. Inventory Management: You will keep track of supplies, order necessary items, and ensure the kitchen remains well-stocked. Cleanliness: Maintaining a tidy kitchen and properly cleaning all utensils and equipment will be a part of your daily responsibilities. Communication: Working closely with Kaiako (Teachers), you will gain insight into children’s food needs to make mealtimes enjoyable. Education: You will have the opportunity to teach children about healthy eating and encourage them to explore a variety of foods. Requirements - Previous experience in cooking or food preparation, preferably in early childhood education or aged care. - Knowledge of nutrition and dietary needs for young children. - Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. - Ability to work collaboratively within a team, as well as independently in the kitchen. Benefits We offer discounted childcare benefits as part of our commitment to supporting our team members. If you are passionate about nourishing young minds and would like to be part of a fun, purpose-driven team, we invite you to apply today. We look forward to discussing this opportunity with you.