Lead Cook

Location: Alston

Lead Cook Barhaugh Hall, near Alston, Cumbria

Start date:

1 st November 2026 – Fixed Term to 31 st 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 Barhaugh Hall. 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.