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- Tasks: Lead a friendly kitchen team and create delicious meals for children and adults.
- Company: Join Robinwood, an employee-owned business with a focus on memorable experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free meals, and a strong work-life balance.
- Other info: Work in beautiful countryside with opportunities for training and social events.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through your cooking.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking and experience in a kitchen environment.
The predicted salary is between 24726 - 24726 £ per year.
Lead Cook at Robinwood Barhaugh Hall, near Alston, Cumbria.
Why Robinwood?
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Enjoy a strong work‑life balance with predictable hours and no weekend work.
Lead Cook - Cumbria employer: Institute for Outdoor Learning
Contact Detail:
Institute for Outdoor Learning Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Cook - Cumbria
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Robinwood and their values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you're applying for a Lead Cook position, be ready to showcase your culinary talents. Maybe even prepare a dish that reflects your style and share it during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your leadership skills! As a Lead Cook, you'll need to motivate your team. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or handled a busy kitchen environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Robinwood family right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Cook - Cumbria
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your experiences and what makes you excited about preparing meals for children and adults. We want to see that you’re not just a cook, but someone who genuinely cares about creating memorable dining experiences.
Highlight Your Organisational Skills: As a Lead Cook, being organised is key! Make sure to mention any experience you have in managing kitchen operations or leading a team. We’re looking for someone who can keep things running smoothly, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills in this area.
Emphasise Teamwork: We’re all about teamwork here at Robinwood, so it’s important to highlight your ability to work well with others. Talk about your experiences in a team setting and how you’ve motivated or supported your colleagues in the kitchen. We want to know how you contribute to a positive working environment!
Apply Through Our Website: Ready to take the plunge? Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do and why we’re such a great place to work!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Outdoor Learning
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of meals you’ll be preparing at Robinwood. Research their menu and think about how you can contribute your own flair to it. Being able to discuss specific dishes and dietary requirements will show your passion and knowledge.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Cook, you'll need to motivate your team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen or team in the past. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle the pressures of the role.
✨Emphasise Hygiene and Safety
Food hygiene is crucial in any kitchen. Be ready to discuss your experience with maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. You might even want to brush up on current food safety regulations to impress your interviewers.
✨Bring Your Personality
Robinwood values creating memorable experiences for children, so let your personality shine through! Share your passion for cooking and how you connect with guests. A positive attitude and enthusiasm can go a long way in making a great impression.