At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team and create delicious meals for children and adults.
- Company: Join Robinwood, an employee-owned business with a fun, child-centred environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals, and 12 weeks off per year.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and leadership development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while enjoying a strong work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a passion for cooking.
Maes y Nant, near Wrexham, North Wales
Start date: 25th August 2026 – Fixed Term to 31st December (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 Maes y Nant.
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:
- £24,414 pro rata (£15.65 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
- A fun, child-centred working environment
Your working pattern:
- Full-time contract - 30 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: 7am – 2pm
Enjoy a strong work-life balance with predictable hours and no weekend work. Flexibility for this fixed term contract to be between 25-30 hours per week. A 25 hour per week contract would be worked across 4 days.
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.
Locations
Lead Cook in Cross Lanes, Wrexham employer: Robinwood Activity Centres
At Robinwood, we pride ourselves on being an industry-leading employer, recognised for our commitment to employee welfare and development. As a Living Wage Foundation accredited and Investors in People Gold business, we offer a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal growth, alongside benefits like predictable hours, no weekend shifts, and opportunities for professional development. Join us at Maes y Nant, where your culinary skills will not only nourish but also create unforgettable experiences for children in a fun and child-centred environment.
Contact Details:
Robinwood Activity Centres Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Cook in Cross Lanes, Wrexham
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Cook in Cross Lanes, Wrexham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Robinwood Activity Centres
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Robinwood Activity Centres. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
