At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a friendly kitchen team to create delicious meals for children and teachers.
- Company: Award-winning school residential provider in a beautiful historic hall.
- Benefits: Enjoy 12 weeks holiday, free meals, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with no late nights or weekends, perfect for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's experiences while cooking in a fun setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a passion for cooking and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 25000 £ per year.
Start date: 1st November 2026 – Fixed Term to 31st October 2027 (Potential to be extended)
Why Robinwood?
Living Wage Foundation accredited
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)
- Training and development opportunities
- A fun, child-centred working environment
- Full-time contract - 32 hours per week (average 38 hours worked over 5 days)
- Shifts between 6am and 8pm (latest finish), Fridays earlier
Example week:
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)
- 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.
Lead Cook employer: Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd
Join our award-winning school residential provider in the stunning Northumberland countryside, where as a Lead Cook, you will play a vital role in creating nutritious meals for children and teachers. Enjoy a supportive work culture with regular daytime shifts, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional development, all while making a positive impact on young lives in a beautiful historic setting.
Contact Details:
Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Cook
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Robinwood Activity Centres Ltd
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
