We're Hiring!

🍽️ Childcare Kitchen Hand | Essendon

Permanent Part-Time | Monday to Friday | 9:00am – 3:00pm

At Journey Early Learning Essendon, we’re looking for a passionate and reliable Kitchen Hand to support the preparation of nutritious, balanced meals that fuel children’s growth, wellbeing, and joy every day.

This is more than just a kitchen role – it’s an opportunity to be part of a centre where food becomes a meaningful part of children’s learning and connection. 💛

🌈 About the Centre

At Journey Early Learning Essendon, we embrace each child’s individuality, creating a safe and supportive environment where they can truly belong, learn, and grow. Our approach is play-based and child-led, fostering curiosity and a genuine love of learning through meaningful, evolving programs.

Our 140-place centre is set across two thoughtfully designed levels, with unique features including dedicated dining spaces for children, a creative art studio, and inviting, natural outdoor yards that encourage exploration. Conveniently located near Essendon Station and tram stops, with a large underground car park, the centre is easily accessible for our team.

With a passionate and experienced team-ranging from educators just beginning their journey to those with over 16 years in the sector-Essendon offers a warm, collaborative environment where knowledge is shared, growth is nurtured, and everyone feels valued and supported. With delicious cafés nearby and strong community connections, it’s a place where you can feel inspired both inside and out, every day. 🌱

🌿 Who You Are

🍎 Passionate about healthy eating, sustainability, and food experiences

🤝 A team player who enjoys building strong relationships with educators, children, and families

👩‍🍳 Organised, reliable, and happy to roll up your sleeves and support wherever needed

🌱 Eager to learn and contribute to a positive centre culture

In this role, you’ll support our Centre Chef in preparing meals for up to 152 children daily – assisting with food prep, plating, dishwashing, and keeping the kitchen running efficiently.

✅ Key Requirements

• Commitment to preparing nutritious, balanced meals for children of all ages
• Current Working with Children Check
• Previous kitchen or food prep experience (preferred but not essential)
  
  

🌈 Who We Are

At Journey, we don’t just talk about culture — we live it, every day.

Our purpose-led approach is grounded in four pillars:

• 🤝 Trust & Belief – in our people and the power of early learning
• 💛 Support & Wellbeing – because caring for children starts with caring for you
• 📈 Growth & Development – with pathways that support your journey
• ✨ Passion & Possibilities – where your ideas are valued and encouraged
  
  

🎁 What We Offer

• 💰 Educator Retention Payment
• 🎉 Paid Birthday Leave
• 🎁 Anniversary Gifts
• 🧠 Mental Health First Aid
• 🤝 Employee Assistance Program
• 🛍️ Retail & lifestyle discounts

🚀 Ready to Join Us?

If you’re passionate about making a difference through food, connection, and care — we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and become part of something meaningful.
Join us at Journey Early Learning… where it all begins. 🌟

🛡️ Child Safety Commitment

At Journey Early Learning, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. Through our See, Act, Tell framework, we actively uphold and advocate for the rights and voices of children, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and protected every day.