At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily operations by applying wigs, facial hair, and assisting with actors' make-up.
- Company: Join the magical team at Lapland UK, creating unforgettable experiences for families.
- Benefits: Earn £15.85 per hour, plus a £50 daily travel subsidy and free meals on shift.
- Other info: Flexible contract options and opportunities for growth within a passionate team.
- Why this job: Be part of a fun, fast-paced environment while making memories for over 40,000 families.
- Qualifications: Experience in live theatre, wig maintenance, and strong teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15.85 - 15.85 £ per hour.
Location: Lapland UK Live Site, Ascot: Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Road, SL5 8BD.
Start Date: 3rd November 2026. Preview Day: 5th November 2026. Opening Day: 7th November 2026. Close Date: 24th December 2026. De-Rig: 27th December – 15th January.
Interviews will be held at our Costume Warehouse in Slough, you will be able to select your preferred time & day when invited to interview.
Role Overview: The WHAM Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring continuity, maintaining standards, and supporting the smooth daily operational flow within the principles and FC departments. In this position, the WHAM Assistants support the daily WHAM operation, consistent delivery of department-wide quality. The WHAM Assistant is expected to uphold the highest standards of practice across the department, ensuring that all health and safety procedures, WHAM protocols, and performance-ready standards are consistently met. Strong communication skills and a calm, professional presence during high-pressure and busy periods are essential.
WHAM & Wardrobe Structure: The WHAM room sits within the wardrobe structure closest to our principal department. The Department is made up of three sub-departments, each with a dedicated team assigned for the duration of the run:
- The principals department supports 50 performers daily.
- The WHAM team are responsible for ensuring all actors apply their make-up correctly in accordance with the design and face chart they are given for that character, offer support with hair prep, apply all wigs and facial hair to the highest standard, apply hats and ensure these are pinned in correctly and will withstand 12 hours on set.
- This area demands meticulous continuity management, strong attention to detail, and an exceptionally organised workflow to meet the pace and precision of the performance schedule.
Father Christmas Dedicated exclusively to our most iconic role, this department supports 50 Father Christmas performers throughout the day. Responsibilities include maintaining setting and dressing facial hair, providing support to Father Christmas during application, ensuring immaculate presentation before and during his time with guests. WHAM also provide support to the FC wardrobe assistants including training in care of facial hair.
Groups Working with ensemble and crowd performers, Groups is a high-energy, fast-paced environment. Each day, over 200 elves are dressed across 15 different costume designs, requiring excellent organisation, consistency, quality control, and rapid turnaround. Although WHAM are not directly linked to the groups, we offer support to the Wardrobe team in ensuring the hair is done to a good standard and make-up applied correctly.
Show & Shift Information: The show runs daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm, with a new audience beginning their journey every 30 minutes. Each audience experiences approximately 1.5 hours of scripted performance, followed by 1.5 hours of immersive free time in the Elven Village, before meeting Father Christmas.
WHAM shifts are split as follows:
- AM Shift: 6:00am – 3:00pm
- PM Shift: 2:45pm – 11:45pm
The show operates 7 days a week. Wardrobe schedules follow a 5 days on / 2 days off rota, with no guaranteed weekend days off.
The Team & Opportunity: This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a large, passionate team within a fun, fast-paced environment. Per site, we are recruiting: 10 WHAM Assistants. We are deeply committed to developing and nurturing our teams. Our goal is to build a department that encourages growth, progression, and return year after year — creating a strong, experienced WHAM team that continues to deliver exceptional standards and unforgettable shows.
Key Responsibilities:
- To apply Wigs, facial hair and hats to actors securely.
- To assist actors with their make-up looks if needed and ensure make-up is kept clean and hygienic between shows.
- To ensure wigs and facial hair are dressed to the highest standard and styles are kept in line with the designs in the wig bible.
- To understand the different types of hair each wig is made of for example, (synthetic, human hair, textured hair) and how to care for it correctly.
- To develop an exceptional knowledge of the wigs and the wig standards.
- To maintain existing systems used for the smooth running of every shift/show.
- To complete all set up and closing duties necessary for the department to run seamlessly.
- To follow cast lists in order to set the correct wigs for each day of shows.
- To keep the WHAM room clean and tidy.
- To have a good knowledge of health and safety protocols.
- To work closely alongside the WHAM Manager on duty to ensure full support to the cast and the rest of the team.
- To effectively communicate running and handover notes to WHAM Manager and WHAM team.
- To respond quickly and efficiently to any one set WHAM Calls.
- To attend training days specified by the WHAM Manager.
- To maintain a supportive and positive WHAM environment with the cast and team.
- To represent the company and comply with company policies.
Key Attributes:
- Excellent Teamwork and Communication
- Passion for the role and the company
- An ability to remain calm under pressure
- Proven experience in live theatre
- Knowledge of wig maintenance techniques
- Experience washing and caring for wigs
Life at LaplandUK: At LaplandUK, we believe in the magic of collaboration, a steadfast commitment to excellence, and a team that's always willing to roll up their sleeves and get involved. Working with us means being part of a dynamic environment where collaboration brings out the best in everyone, diverse talents converge, and innovation thrives. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every team member is dedicated to achieving the highest standards, contributing to a workplace culture that values continuous improvement and outstanding results.
We're not just looking for employees; we want people who are excited to get involved, embrace challenges, and bring a hands-on approach to their work, creating a workplace full of positivity and collective success. Overall, working at LaplandUK offers a chance to be part of something truly special, where the wonder of childhood is celebrated by a team dedicated to making memories for over 40,000 families each year.
Pay Rate: £15.85 per hour, plus £50 per working day subsidy. Your choice of contract basis - we can contract as PAYE or Self-Employed.
Benefits:
- One on-site meal per working shift
- Lapland Shuttle bus from local train station to get to site
- Off-site parking for staff (Ascot Racecourse) then free shuttle bus to site
- Holiday paid in full at end of the contract calculated at 12.07% of total hours worked
- £50 Subsidy per working day to help with travel costs.
Applicants must be authorised to work in the United Kingdom without the need for visa sponsorship. Lapland reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any time. Due to the high number of applications being received, we may not be able to respond to every applicant. Lapland is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.
WHAM Assistant - Ascot in London employer: LaplandUK
LaplandUK is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and collaborative work culture, where every team member plays a vital role in creating magical experiences for families. With a commitment to employee growth, we offer training opportunities and a supportive environment that values teamwork and innovation. Located in the picturesque Ascot, our staff enjoy competitive pay, daily meal provisions, and convenient transport options, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment during the festive season.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land WHAM Assistant - Ascot in London
✨Get in Early: Embrace the Seasonal Rush
In hospitality, seasonal hiring can be a bit of a frenzy, so make sure you’re applying early. Keep an eye on when local businesses like cafés and restaurants ramp up for holiday seasons or summer rushes. We can help you stay ahead by tracking application windows—don’t miss out!
✨Join Local Hospitality Groups
Tap into local hospitality communities online or through social media. Groups on Facebook or platforms like MeetUp can be goldmines for seasonal job opportunities. Engage with these communities—join discussions, share your eagerness, and you could snag a gig before it’s even advertised!
✨Show Your Face: Walk-Ins Matter
In hospitality, nothing beats a good ol' walk-in. Visit local establishments and introduce yourself. Bring along a flashy CV and maybe even drop a line about why you’re keen to work there. Sometimes just chatting with the manager can score you an interview on the spot!
✨Use Seasonal Hiring Platforms
Look for platforms that specialise in seasonal positions in the hospitality sector. Websites dedicated to summer jobs or Festival employment can offer unique roles that align with your interests. Don't forget to apply through our website too—companies like LaplandUK are constantly looking for enthusiastic seasonal workers like you!
We think you need these skills to ace WHAM Assistant - Ascot in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service game, your customer service skills are your bread and butter. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in restaurants, cafés, or similar environments, emphasizing your ability to handle busy situations and provide excellent service.
Seasonal Availability is Key:Since this is a seasonal role, we're looking for candidates who are flexible with their availability. In your cover letter, mention specific times you’re available during the season and any previous seasonal positions you’ve held. This helps us see you as a perfect fit for this temporary gig!
Culinary Knowledge Can Set You Apart:If you have any culinary certifications or training, be sure to feature them prominently in your application. Knowing your way around a kitchen or having food safety certifications could give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a role at LaplandUK.
Make It Personal:When applying through our website, use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about working with LaplandUK. Draw on any personal experiences you have in the hospitality scene and how they inspired you to apply for this seasonal role. We love a personal touch!
How to prepare for a job interview at LaplandUK
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
With a seasonal role in hospitality-food-service, it’s super important to familiarise yourself with the menu. Be ready to chat about your favourite dishes, special ingredients, and any dietary considerations people might have. This shows you're passionate and prepared to provide excellent service right from the start!
✨Brush Up on Your Customer Service Skills
In hospitality, customer service can make or break the experience. Think of scenarios where you've gone the extra mile for a guest, or how you've handled challenges with a smile. Prepare a few stories that highlight your ability to connect with customers, solve problems, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Flexibility is Key
Seasonal roles often require us to be flexible with our hours and responsibilities. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlighting your ability to jump into different roles, whether it’s serving or kitchen support, can really set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, especially in busy seasons. Prepare to share experiences where you collaborated with colleagues to create a seamless experience for guests. If you've got any examples where you helped to lift team morale during busy shifts, mention them! It’s all about showing that you can contribute positively to the work environment.
