Join Our Team at Gardenia Ellen Grove – We’re Hiring a Cook / Chef!

Gardenia Early Learning Ellen Grove is looking for a warm, passionate and organised Cook or Chef to join our team.

At Gardenia, we create nurturing environments where children feel safe, supported and inspired to grow. We believe food is more than nutrition—it brings people together and supports children’s learning, independence and wellbeing.

Our kitchen is at the heart of the centre, providing fresh, wholesome meals and opportunities for children to explore new flavours and develop positive relationships with food.

Key Responsibilities

- Meal preparation: Prepare fresh, nutritious meals and snacks that meet children’s dietary needs.

- Menu planning: Develop varied, seasonal menus that encourage healthy eating.

- Food safety and hygiene: Maintain high standards of food handling, kitchen cleanliness and storage.

- Dietary requirements: Safely cater for allergies, intolerances and cultural requirements.

- Kitchen management: Manage stock, ordering and kitchen organisation.

- Record keeping: Maintain accurate food safety and compliance records.

- Collaboration: Work with educators and leadership to support calm, enjoyable and unhurried mealtimes.

- Centre events:



Support food preparation for celebrations and special occasions.

What You’ll Bring

- A current Working with Children Blue Card is essential—all applicants must hold one.

- Experience cooking for children or in a similar workplace.

- A strong understanding of food safety, allergy management and dietary requirements.

- Creativity and enthusiasm for preparing fresh, wholesome meals.

- Excellent organisation and time management.

- A warm, collaborative approach and a commitment to children’s health and wellbeing.

What We Offer

- Monday to Friday during centre operating hours, with occasional additional hours required for centre events.

- A supportive, welcoming team where your ideas are valued.

- The opportunity to help shape our healthy eating program.

- A centre that values community, connection and children’s wellbeing.

- 90% staff discount on your children’s fees.

- Access to 24/7 wellbeing and health support.

- Quarterly team-building events to connect and celebrate together.

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📌 Childcare Cook / Chef (Brisbane)
🏢 Gardenia Early Learning
📍 Brisbane