Spitboy/Turnbrooch

Hampton Court Palace is looking for a new spitboy, or turnbrooch. You will be one of six who roast meat for the king and his company. At the very bottom of the kitchen ladder, or perhaps not even on the ladder, spitboys are supervised by a team of 12 cooks under the control of the master cook. Gordon Ramsay is a pussycat compared with these guys.

The cold of the English winter will be a distant memory as you build up a nice tan in front of one of the six roaring fires in the kitchen, where you will be positioned hour after hour, day after day. Leftovers from the delicious roasted meats may be offered to you after the king, his noblemen, the stewards, the cooks, the maids and the dog have all had their share.

Tasks & duties

• Assisting with roasting duties.
• Regular turning of roasts to ensure consistent cooking.
• Cleaning of the kitchen.

Personal requirements

• Ability to follow instructions (usually SIT! and TURN!).
• Patience.
• A calm attitude.
• Ability to work well under pressure.