Cook - Early Learning Centre

About Leap Pad Early Learning

At Leap Pad Early Learning, we are committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child's potential is unlocked through engaging, play-based learning experiences.

Our vision is to inspire a generation of curious, confident and compassionate individuals. We recognise that good nutrition plays an important role in children's growth, learning and overall wellbeing, which is why we are committed to providing fresh, wholesome and nutritious meals prepared using high-quality ingredients.

We are currently seeking an experienced and dedicated Cook to join our team on full-time basis and take responsibility for the preparation of nutritious, age-appropriate meals and the day-to-day operation of our Centre kitchen.

About the Role

As the Cook at Leap Pad Early Learning, you will be responsible for planning, preparing and cooking fresh, nutritious and well-balanced meals and snacks for children attending the Centre.

You will manage daily kitchen operations, including food preparation and cooking, menu planning, stock control, food ordering and kitchen hygiene, while ensuring that children's allergies, food intolerances, cultural requirements and other individual dietary needs are carefully accommodated.

Working closely with Centre management and educators, you will help ensure that every meal is prepared safely, served on time and contributes positively to children's health, growth and development.

💎 Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook fresh, nutritious and age-appropriate meals and snacks in accordance with approved menus, recipes and children’s nutritional needs.

• Examine ingredients and food products to ensure quality, freshness and suitability before preparation and cooking.

• Prepare, season and cook food using appropriate cooking techniques, safely operating and regulating ovens, stovetops and other kitchen equipment.

• Portion and present meals and snacks appropriately for different age groups and in accordance with menu and serving requirements.

• Plan and organise daily food preparation to ensure meals and snacks are prepared and served on time according to the Centre’s daily routine.

• Contribute to the planning and rotation of nutritious menus, incorporating a variety of fresh ingredients and meal options suitable for young children.

• Adapt meals to safely accommodate food allergies, anaphylaxis risks, intolerances, cultural requirements and other individual dietary needs.

• Follow appropriate food handling and allergen-management procedures to prevent cross-contamination and maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.

• Monitor food supplies, undertake stock control and rotation, and coordinate the ordering of food, ingredients and kitchen supplies.

• Ensure food is appropriately stored, labelled, cooked, cooled, reheated and served in accordance with applicable food safety requirements.

• Maintain a clean, organised and hygienic kitchen, including equipment, utensils, preparation areas and food-storage areas.

• Maintain required food safety, temperature, stock and kitchen records.

• Work collaboratively with Centre management and educators regarding menus, allergies, dietary requirements and children’s nutritional needs.

• Promote healthy eating and contribute to positive mealtime experiences for children.

💎 Position Requirements

• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or equivalent recognised qualification.

• Minimum 1 year of relevant experience as a Cook.

• Strong understanding of food safety, food handling, allergies, intolerances and special dietary requirements.

• Ability to confidently follow recipes, menu plans and portion guides.

• Strong time-management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage daily kitchen operations independently.

• Good communication skills and a positive, collaborative approach to working with Centre management and educators.

• Current Food Safety/Food Handling Certificate.

• Valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).

• Must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Previous experience in a childcare, early learning, school or similar food-service environment will be highly regarded.

💎 What We Offer

• A permanent full-time position.

• Salary of $80,000 – $85,000 per annum plus super.

• Monday to Friday working arrangements.

• A supportive and welcoming early learning environment.

• The opportunity to use your commercial cookery experience in a meaningful role that directly supports children's health and development.

• A collaborative workplace where quality, safety, inclusion and teamwork are valued.

• The opportunity to contribute to children's development by encouraging nutritious eating habits and positive experiences with food.

Why Leap Pad Early Learning?

At Leap Pad Early Learning, our mission is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child's potential is unlocked through engaging, play-based learning experiences.

We believe children's physical wellbeing is an important foundation for learning and development. Our meals are thoughtfully prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients, with a focus on providing children with balanced, wholesome and enjoyable food.

Meal times are also an opportunity for children to come together, develop social skills and build positive relationships with food. As our Cook, you will play an important role in creating these experiences while ensuring the highest standards of nutrition, food safety and care.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Cook who is passionate about preparing nutritious food and would enjoy using your skills in a rewarding early childhood environment, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience, qualifications and suitability for the position.

Applicants must meet the essential qualification and experience requirements and hold a current Food Safety/Food Handling Certificate and valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).

Applicants must also be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident to be considered for this position.