Lead Cook

  • Robinwood Activity Centres
  • Apr 26, 2026
Full time Hospitality & Tourism

Job Description

Lead Cook
Barhaugh Hall, near Alston, Cumbria

Start date: ASAP

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:

• £24,726 per year (£15.85 per hour, based on a 30 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
• Beautiful countryside working environment

Your working pattern:

• Full-time contract - 30 hours per week (average 38 hours worked)
• 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.