Lead Cook

Lead Cook Barhaugh Hall, near Alston, Cumbria Start date: 1st November 2026 – Fixed Term to 31st October 2027 (Potential to be extended) Why Robinwood? Industry-leading Employer * Living Wage Foundation accredited * Investors in People Gold * Employee-owned business Love cooking and want your work to make a real difference? At Robinwood, you won’t just be preparing meals — you’ll be helping create memorable residential experiences for children. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying evening meals, your food will fuel adventure, confidence, and fun. We are looking for a passionate and organised Lead Cook to join our friendly team at Maes y Nant. What you will be doing as a Lead Cook: As part of a small, supportive catering team, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and keeping the kitchen running smoothly. You will: • Support the Catering Manager in all kitchen operations • Lead and motivate the kitchen team during shifts • Prepare a variety of nutritious meals for children and adults • Ensure all dietary requirements are met • Maintain high standards of food hygiene and cleanliness • Provide a positive and welcoming service to guests What you will get: • £26,375 (£15.85 per hour, based on a 32-hour per week contract) • Consistent monthly pay through an annualised hours contract • Pay reflective of experience and skills Plus: • Monday to Friday shifts – no late nights or weekends • Free meals on shift • Profit-related tax-free bonus • 12 weeks off per year (including August and Christmas) • Staff social events • Training and development opportunities • A fun, child-centred working environment Your working pattern: • Full-time contract - 32 hours per week (average 38 hours worked over 5 days) • Fixed 4-week rotating timetable • Shifts between 6am and 8pm (latest finish), Fridays earlier Example week: • Monday: 9am – 8pm • Tuesday: 7am – 8pm • Wednesday: 6am – 3pm • Thursday: 6am – 3pm • Friday: 7am – 2pm Enjoy a strong work-life balance with predictable hours and no weekend work. Training & Development We support your growth with: • Food hygiene certification (Level 2 provided if needed) • Ongoing professional development • Opportunities to build leadership skills What we are looking for • Experienced in a busy kitchen (with some leadership responsibility) • Passionate about cooking and teamwork • Knowledgeable about food hygiene and safety • Positive, proactive, and customer-focused Ready to apply? If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can cook great food, enjoy a balanced lifestyle, and make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Internal and external applicants welcome