Meet the staff at the heart of The Old Forge kitchen
Rachael and LucyAt the heart of The Old Forge Kitchen are two extraordinary women: Rachael, our warm and nurturing cook, and Lucy, her dedicated and detail-focused kitchen assistant. Together, they fill our nursery with delicious food, laughter, and love.
Rachael has been part of our nursery family for an incredible seven years. Starting as a housekeeper, she quickly became a familiar and friendly face to every child. Her caring personality, coupled with a deep love for cooking, naturally drew her into the kitchen, where she now shines every single day.
Our Cook knows every child by heart
What sets Rachael apart isn’t just her skill in the kitchen, it’s the heartfelt care she brings to every dish. She knows each child’s likes, dislikes, and allergies like the back of her hand. It’s not uncommon to hear little voices asking, “Rachael, what’s for dinner today?” as they pass by the kitchen! Rachael tailors meals to each child’s needs and preferences. Whether it’s swapping out ingredients for allergies or adding a little extra of a favourite vegetable, she goes the extra mile to make sure every child feels seen and cared for.
“It’s more than just food,” says Rachael. “It’s about making the children feel safe, included, and excited to eat.”
Fresh from the Garden to the Plate
Mealtimes at The Old Forge are special with some of the produce coming directly from the children’s own nursery garden. Rachael loves involving them in the journey from plant to plate, helping them understand where food comes from and why it matters.
We also work closely with British farmers and local suppliers, ensuring everything served is seasonal, sustainable, and packed with nutrients and flavour.
Every great kitchen needs a strong team, and Rachael is the first to say she couldn’t do it without Lucy. As Kitchen Assistant, Lucy ensures every meal is prepared with precision and care. She’s the quiet force keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes.
“Lucy is absolutely amazing—I genuinely couldn’t manage without her,” says Rachael. “She’s so thorough and always makes sure everything’s done to the highest standard.”
Lucy supports everything from food prep to hygiene and allergen safety, and when Rachael is away, she steps up confidently, continuing their shared commitment to quality and care.
“I’ve learned so much from Rachael,” says Lucy. “We’re a real team, and it feels good to know we’re helping the children get the best start through healthy food.”
A quick chat with Rachael
Q: What’s your favourite part of the day?
A: “When the children come in asking what’s for dinner, that’s the best. I love seeing their curiosity and excitement around food.”
Q: What dish do the children love the most?
A: “Our veggie-packed spaghetti Bolognese, it’s a winner every time. And I know who likes it with cheese and who doesn’t!”
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
A: “Seeing empty plates and hearing ‘thank you, Rachael!’ makes my whole day.”
The Old Forge kitchen: A place full of heart
The Old Forge Kitchen isn’t just about food—it’s about belonging, care, and connection. Every meal is infused with warmth, laughter, and the genuine relationships Rachael and Lucy have built with the children.
With nourishing menus, garden-fresh ingredients, and a team that knows every child personally, the kitchen is a place where little tummies are filled, and hearts are too.
“Food made with love really does taste better,” says Rachael. “And when the children come back for seconds, you know you’ve done something right.”
Together, Rachael and Lucy are more than a kitchen team, they’re a treasured part of daily life at the nursery, serving up joy and nourishment one delicious meal at a time.
