Make a Really Positive Difference
FAQs
Do you offer accommodation?
We don’t provide accommodation but are fortunate that all our centres are located in areas where there is generally a reasonable amount of affordable rental properties. We have a Facebook and/or WhatsApp group for new starters where staff can get in contact with each other and discuss housing arrangements before starting, and there are also dedicated members of our current team who can help with any housing issues. We find that it’s much better for overall work-life balance for staff not to live on site.
Taking account of the year-round employment, great career development and wonderful place to work that we offer, many of our current team have worked with us for 10 years or more. We are keen for people to stay with us long term and when doing this, most people appreciate their own place to go home to in preference to rented accommodation on centre. Many have taken advantage of our house purchase assistance scheme, to help them get their foot on the housing ladder.
How long do I have to stay in the job?
All staff at Robinwood are on permanent contracts, and we are happy for you to stay as long as you like! Due to the investment in training and support, we need everybody to commit to staying for a minimum of 12 months.
What hours will I be working?
Group leaders start work on a 5-day contract. Average contracted hours per week can vary between 31 and 35 hpw and on lower hours you would have some 4-day weeks.
You can request to drop hours after 8 operational weeks of doing the Group Leader role. This would include the option to work either a 4-day week or a 3-day week.
Barhaugh Hall and Cross Lanes only operate Monday to Friday, so all staff work those days. Dobroyd Castle operates 7 days a week so staff are either on a Mon-Fri contract or a Wed-Sun contract. Everybody does one group lead a week (a core duty) which involves running all the activities for their group, then the fourth and fifth days are timetabled for shifts like bedtimes and wake-up duties, site work or catering.
Due to the nature of our course, there are some early starts (e.g. 7.30am) and late finishes (up to 10.30pm), along with occasional overnight duties. The hours average out over the course of a year, with busy weeks for those on 5-day contracts involving working just over 40 hours. The centres are closed for 12 weeks of the year so there are plenty of weeks off.
What is the pay?
Find out the latest pay here
How does the selection process work?
After filling out the application form, successful candidates will be offered a place on an online selection event. These events last about 4 hours and involve around 6-8 people. Those who pass that stage will be invited to the activity centre for a day. This will include observing activities led by an experienced Group Leader, jumping off our Trapeze tower and meeting with a Centre Manager. Successful candidates can choose which centre they work at and will be offered a position at that centre on the next available start date.
Is the job seasonal?
No, at Robinwood we don’t have seasonal contracts or apprenticeships. Just permanent year-round employment.
Why should I work for Robinwood?
There are many reasons why people choose to work at Robinwood, the work-life balance, the like-minded friendly team, and the joy of making a really positive difference to the lives of children. But we also provide free food and uniform, fully paid training, ongoing development with Line Managers who care about you, extra pay for weekend and night shifts, the majority of school holidays off, and an annual profit bonus.
