About the role

Bright Beginnings Learning Centre Thurgoona is seeking an Early Childhood Service Chef to join our team in a full-time capacity. Based in Thurgoona, NSW, this role is pivotal in providing nutritious, delicious and age-appropriate meals to our early childhood service. As an Early Childhood Service Chef, you will be responsible for planning, preparing and delivering meals that support the health, development and wellbeing of the children in our care, whilst adhering to strict dietary and food safety standards specific to early childhood education settings.

Key responsibilities

- Planning and designing menus that are nutritionally balanced, allergen-aware and tailored to the dietary requirements and preferences of young children

- Preparing and cooking meals, snacks and beverages using fresh, quality ingredients and age-appropriate cooking methods

- Managing food procurement, stock rotation and inventory to ensure cost efficiency and food freshness

- Maintaining meticulous food safety and hygiene standards in accordance with early childhood service regulations and best practice guidelines

- Accommodating specific dietary needs, including allergies, intolerances and cultural or religious requirements

- Collaborating with educators and management to understand and support children's nutritional and developmental needs

- Maintaining clean and organised kitchen facilities and equipment

- Documenting meal planning and food preparation activities as required by the service

- Supporting nutrition education initiatives within the service where appropriate

What we're looking for





- Formal culinary qualifications or recognised chef training

- Proven experience working in a professional kitchen environment, with a preference for experience in early childhood or community food service settings

- Sound knowledge of nutrition principles, particularly as they relate to young children's dietary needs

- Comprehensive understanding of food safety protocols, allergen management and cross-contamination prevention

- Ability to plan menus that are diverse, inclusive and cater to multiple dietary requirements simultaneously

- Strong organisational and time management skills to meet meal preparation deadlines consistently

- Excellent communication skills to work effectively with educators, families and management

- Commitment to maintaining high standards of kitchen cleanliness and food hygiene
- A genuine passion for supporting children's health and wellbeing through quality nutrition

- Current Food Safety Supervisor certification or willingness to obtain it

What we offer

Bright Beginnings Learning Centre Thurgoona is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where our team members can thrive.

We offer competitive remuneration reflecting your experience and qualifications, a collaborative and family-friendly work environment,



and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children's lives. We value ongoing professional development and encourage our staff to pursue relevant training and certifications. Our team benefits from a positive workplace culture that celebrates diversity and prioritises the wellbeing of both our staff and the children in our care. We welcome discussions about adaptable working arrangements where possible to support work-life balance.

About us

Bright Beginnings Learning Centre Thurgoona is a dedicated early childhood education and care service committed to fostering curiosity, creativity and confidence in young learners. Our philosophy centres on providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child can develop at their own pace and reach their full potential. We recognise that quality nutrition is integral to child development and educational outcomes, and we are committed to providing wholesome, delicious meals that reflect best practice in early childhood nutrition.

Our team is passionate about supporting families in their early childhood journey and creating a warm, welcoming community where children feel safe, valued and inspired to learn and grow.

Apply now

If you are an experienced chef with a passion for working in early childhood services and a commitment to nutritional excellence, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, relevant qualifications and a brief cover letter outlining your experience in early childhood food service to Bright Beginnings Learning Centre Thurgoona.

📌 Early Childhood Service Chef (Thurgoona)
🏢 Bright Beginnings Learning Centre Thurgoona
📍 Thurgoona