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Job description

To take sole responsibility for the end-to-end management of the pre-school’s hot meal service. This includes the legal receipt, safe temperature monitoring, and hygienic serving of food provided by external caterers. The role ensures strict allergen compliance, safe presentation of foods to prevent choking hazards, and guarantees that the kitchen environment meets all Northern Ireland Environmental Health standards and food safety legislation.

Responsibilities

• Food Safety & Temperature Control (HACCP)
• Legislative Allergen Management (FIR 2014)
• Service & Nutrition
• Hygiene & EHO Compliance
• EHO Audit Preparedness

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Food Safety Certification: Hold a valid Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering (must be valid at the start date).
• Allergen Training: Evidence of (or commitment to complete) the FSA NI Food Allergy and Intolerance Training.
• Links to essential, minimum requirement training, provided by: Safe food for Business - Food Hygiene and; Food Standards Agency - Food Allergy and Intolerance Training.
• Legislative Knowledge: Understanding of The Food Hygiene Regulations (NI) 2006 and HACCP principles regarding hot-holding.
• Safeguarding: Must be eligible for and pass an Enhanced AccessNI check prior to commencement. Must complete an application for vetting clearance with Social Services.
• Record Keeping: Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate, audit-ready logs for temperatures, deliveries, and cleaning schedules.
• Communication: Ability to engage warmly with children and clearly report safety or supply issues to the Playgroup Manager.

Desirable Skills

• Experience: Previous experience managing food service independently (e.g., in a small nursery, community hall, or school).
• Early Years Standards: Knowledge of the "Nutrition Matters for the Early Years" guidelines for Northern Ireland.
• Environmental Health: Experience preparing for and passing Environmental Health Officer (EHO) inspections.

Further Information

All details are attached to the job specification in the application form.