Join Our Team at Busy Bees – Leading Nursery Group in the UK

Are you passionate about cooking and providing nutritious meals for young children? As a Chef at Busy Bees, you’ll be a key part of our kitchen team, preparing healthy meals that support children's growth and development. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a nurturing environment where you will contribute to the wellbeing of children while gaining valuable experience in catering within the early years sector.

About Us
Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK and more overseas. We are dedicated to giving every child the best start in life and are proud to have won awards for our workplace culture. At Busy Bees, we ensure that every member of our team feels heard, valued, and nurtured.

Why Work at Busy Bees?
We offer a supportive environment that empowers you to create engaging, educational spaces where children can thrive. As part of our team, you’ll be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum, designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners.

Our Charitable Commitment
Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need, we offer fantastic opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children's lives.

About our Nursery 
Busy Bees Derby Heatherton, rated "Good" by Ofsted, features spacious and open-plan rooms ideal for early years development, complemented by free-flow access to outdoor play areas and an exciting discovery garden. With a capacity of 107 children, our nursery offers a stimulating environment for your little one.Located on Hollybrook Way in Heatherton, we are just a 15-minute drive from Derby City Centre. The A38 is a mere 2-minute drive away, making our nursery ideal for commuters. For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is a short walk from the nursery at Nuffield Hospital, serving routes 234 and V3. Free parking is available for staff.At Busy Bees Derby Heatherton, your child will have heaps of fun participating in weekly Spanish lessons, bi-weekly football sessions, and termly exotic animal classes! Our dedicated team includes a long-standing member who has been with us since 1999, along with a Level 6 SENCO and a qualified teacher to support every child's development.

Busy Bees Benefits

• Competitive salary


• Ongoing professional development and career progression


• Our ‘Hive’ benefits and wellbeing hub, with discounts across a huge range of retailers


• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)


• Your birthday off – it’s our gift to you!


• 25% childcare discount


• Enhanced family leave and return to work bonus


• Menopause support through Peppy


• Financial support through Salary Finance


• Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders


• Cycle to Work scheme


• Easy access to your workplace pension through Cushon


• Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

But wait, there’s more! You'll also enjoy access to our Benefits and Wellbeing platform, Hive - offering huge array huge of retail discounts helping your money to go further, along with a Wellbeing Hub featuring resources to support your physical and mental health. A Celebrating You section showcasing the ways we recognise and reward our valued team members. Plus, a dedicated Grow with Us area sharing the exciting development opportunities and training designed to support you to thrive and grow at Busy Bees.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals that meet dietary needs.


• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring food safety and hygiene compliance.


• Manage kitchen staff and collaborate with regulatory bodies during inspections.


• Maintain kitchen inventory and efficiently manage purchasing.

Ideal Candidate:

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).


• Experience in catering or kitchen operations.


• Empathy and understanding – each child is unique.

If you’re passionate about food and nutrition and maybe you have experience as Chef, an Assistant Chef, a Cook or managed a cafe apply now!