Position Details:
* Permanent part-Time (30 hours per week)
* Monday to Friday | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Acorn Acres is a family-owned and operated childcare centre in the heart of Moe.
At Acorn Acres, our centre is a special place designed to nurture young minds and hearts.
Operating from 6:30 am - 6:30 pm, our space is designed to feel like a home away from home. With natural play environments, open-plan rooms filled with natural light and abundant age-appropriate resources, both indoor and outdoor play areas, we provide the perfect setting for 60 children to explore, grow, and thrive.
About the role
At Acorn Acres Early Learning, we're looking for passionate and dedicated Cook to join our wonderful team in Moe
In this role, you will play a vital part in supporting children's health and wellbeing by preparing and planning nutritionally balanced meals for children aged 6 months to 5 years. You'll work closely with our leadership team and follow the Feed Australia program to deliver seasonal, wholesome, and child-friendly menus that meet all dietary requirements.
The role requires knowledge of Meal Preparation, Food Handling, Menu Planning, and the implementation of a Food Safety Program. Regular documentation is also required to ensure all records are kept up to date and in accordance with local authorities.
Key Responsibilities:
* Menu Planning & Nutrition:
Develop and implement a seasonal rotating menu in line with our Centre Nutrition Policy and Nutrition Australia guidelines, ensuring all meals meet the dietary needs of children aged 6 months to 5 years.
* Inclusive & Allergen-Safe Meals:
Cater for a range of dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, cultural preferences, and anaphylaxis management. Ensure safe preparation and storage practices in accordance with the Food Safety Plan.
* Appealing & Engaging Meals:
Present food in exciting, sensory-rich, and age-appropriate ways that encourage autonomy and independence in mealtime routines and foster positive food relationships.
* Stock Management & Ordering:
Conduct weekly food and supply ordering based on the current menu. Maintain budget awareness while prioritising fresh, wholesome ingredients.
* Kitchen Maintenance & Food Safety:
Uphold the highest health and safety standards, ensuring that all kitchen spaces, appliances, and storage areas are clean, functional, and regularly maintained.
* Time Management & Organisation:
Demonstrate strong time management and kitchen leadership, ensuring meals are prepared and served on schedule while maintaining quality and consistency.
* Support Educators:
Support Kinder Program and Lead Educators with curriculum needs to introduce cooking with children, celebrating events and other celebrations.
* Compliance & Documentation:
Maintain accurate records in line with the Centre's Food Safety Plan, including temperature logs, allergen tracking, and menu documentation for regulatory compliance
Qualifications & Experience:
current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or equivalent
Previous experience in a childcare, aged care, or health care setting is a plus
A current certificate in First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis and Asthma (or be willing to obtain)
Working With Children Check (WWCC)
Familiarity with theEarly Years Learning Framework (EYLF)
The Benefits of Being with Acorn Acres
Competitive above-award pay
Up to 75% off childcare fees
Fully funded First Aid, Anaphylaxis, CPR, and Asthma certifications
Paid uniforms
Support for your continued education and professional growth
work-life balance
Child Safe Standards Statement of Commitment:Acorn Acers Early Learning Centre is a child-safe organisation committed to the safety and well-being of children.
As a child-safe organisation, we are committed to providing a child-safe environment where children feel safe, are empowered, valued and protected. Council will actively listen to children, ensuring their voices are heard and considered in decisions that affect their lives.