Early Childhood Centre Cook

'It takes a big heart, to shape little minds'

Inspiring opportunities for a passionate qualified Centre Cook who want to make a positive impact in children's lives.

About the Y NT

Everyone at the Y NT is dedicated to supporting children, young people and communities to thrive. Whether it's at Early Learning Centre's, Outside Hours School Care, at their Recreation Centre's, Aquatic facilities, in their Youth Programs, Remote Pools program, or at the Hostel, the Y is committed to supporting Territorians to be connected, educated, resilient and healthy.

The Y Northern Territory provides high-quality early childhood education that promotes and develops self-confidence, creativity, and individuality while celebrating cultural diversity, so that every child in our care can thrive in their own unique way.

We take pride in embedding multi-cultural perspectives into our curriculums and in creating a rich and meaningful connection with our local communities.

Our Early Learning Centre's, each unique in their own right; are vibrant, inclusive, sustainable, play-based environments where curiosity is encouraged and the individuality of every child is nurtured.

You can learn more about Early Learning at the Y and our philosophy, here:

Benefits

• 5 Weeks Annual Leave
• Access to the recreation facilities we manage
• Discounted rates at Y Childcare Centres
• Above award rates
• Confidential Employee Assistance Program
• Access to ongoing development and training

The Opportunity

The Y Northern Territory has an exciting opportunity available for a Centre Cook across our Grevillea Early Learning Centre, based in Alice Springs NT.

We are looking for someone that is passionate about creating delicious and nutritious snacks and meals, menu planning and managing a kitchen environment in line with health regulations, who can work Monday to Friday on a permanent part time basis.

Grevillea Early Learning Centre is licensed for care for a maximum 48 children, runs Monday to Friday, between 7:30am to 5:30pm, we are looking for someone to whip up a storm in the kitchen from 8am - 2pm, Monday to Friday.

The Y Northern Territory provides a supportive and inclusive work environment, employees are valued and respected for their skills and commitment to quality early childhood education and care are supported through career development progression, planning and opportunities.

When you join the Y Northern Territory, you become part of a passionate community of like-minded individuals who are inspired to make a positive impact in the lives of young children.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious meals that are culturally appropriate for children 0-4 years in a timely manner to fit the Centre's routines
• Provide for/or supplement alternative foods/beverages for children with allergies or special food/dietary requirements
• Have knowledge and understanding of the relevant policies, standards and legislation, including nutritional standards set by the Australian Food and Beverage classification system and ensuring food handling standards are adhered to at all times
• Evaluate the menu on a regular basis and display weekly menus for families and accommodate any changes to menus as required
• Actively seek the involvement of families in menu planning and provide recipes to families as requested
• Coordinate and manage food supply purchasing and budget with the support of the Centre Director
• Involve children in kitchen activities as appropriate/provide assistance to Centre's team regarding food and cooking experiences for children
• Involvement in special events which require preparation and/or organisation
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen workspace and eating areas

About you:

• Minimum one year experience working as a Cook
• Qualifications in Commercial Cookery or similar are desirable
• Current First Aid and CPR
• Current Food Handling certificate
• Sound knowledge of food preparation, nutritional standards, menu preparation, food hygiene practices & kitchen management
• A positive role model, demonstrating appropriate behaviour

Mandatory Requirements

YMCA, including its Boards of Directors, are committed to the safety and well-being of children and young people in accordance with our Safeguarding Children and Young People framework. YMCA requires that all applicants undergo satisfactory screening prior to commencement, including but not limited to:

A national criminal history check;

An international criminal history check where applicants have worked overseas;

• Holding or obtaining a Working with Children Clearance/ equivalent in accordance with Territory laws;
• Two reference checks.

Any successfully appointed applicant will be required to adhere to the Safeguarding Children and Young People framework, which includes a thorough safeguarding children and young people induction and a commitment to upholding the safety and wellbeing of children and young people throughout their engagement with YMCA.

To learn more about our screening processes, click here to view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy:

Applications close Monday 6th October 2025*.

*The Y NT reserves the right to conclude the recruitment process prior to the advertised closure date.