Lead Cook

Location: Ayle

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: 6am – 3pm
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