Early Years Chef

Apprenticeship

Level 2

8 Months

About this course

Master the Art of Nutrition for the Next Generation

Develop skilled early years chefs who create healthy, balanced meals that nurture children’s growth, wellbeing, and development.

This specialised apprenticeship equips your kitchen team with the skills and knowledge to produce nutritious, age-appropriate meals for children aged 0–5. Learners gain practical expertise in menu planning, food safety, and allergen management, as well as the ability to cater for diverse dietary needs. Developed in collaboration with early years nutrition experts, the programme helps staff understand the vital role food plays in early childhood development. Your organisation will benefit from confident, capable chefs who support children’s health and wellbeing while maintaining high operational and nutritional standards.

Course Details

  • Entry requirements: Entry requirements: Employers will set their own entry requirements in order to start this apprenticeship.
  • Course duration: The minimum duration of this apprenticeship is 8 months
  • Course delivery: Our blended approach combines face-to-face personalised support and online learning to ensure flexibility, progress, and meaningful development for every learner and employer.

Learn More

Discover the modules, topics, and skills that shape the apprentice learning journey.

We’re an award-winning team

C2C Awards Logos Plus BTA 2025
C2C Awards Logos Plus BTA 2025

Benefits

How your organisation can benefit

Strengthen your early years team with practical training that builds capability, confidence, and long-term commitment.

  • Nutritional Expertise

    Deliver Balanced, Healthy Meals

    Build your team’s understanding of child nutrition and develop menus that support wellbeing and healthy growth.

  • Quality and Safety

    Maintain the Highest Standards

    Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and allergen regulations across your early years kitchen.

  • Inclusive Catering

    Support Diverse Dietary Needs

    Equip chefs to confidently adapt meals for allergies, intolerances, and cultural or medical dietary requirements.

  • Workforce Development

    Grow Skills and Confidence

    Develop motivated catering professionals who contribute to your setting’s quality and reputation through excellence in food and care.

You might be interested in some of our other apprenticeships in Early Years Care

  • Level 5

    8 to 18 Months

    Early Years Lead Practitioner

  • Level 2

    8 to 12 Months

    Early Years Practitioner

  • Level 3

    8 to 12 Months

    Early Years Educator

  • Level 2

    8 Months

    Early Years Chef