At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our school clean, safe, and secure while supporting students and staff.
- Company: Join Polaris Community, dedicated to improving young lives for over 30 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a pension scheme, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a nurturing environment that inspires learning and growth.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a passion for maintaining a safe school space.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS check required, with costs covered by Polaris.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 Β£ per year.
Basic Salary: Β£26,402
Contract: Full Time
Location: Wigan, Greater Manchester
Benefits: 30 days Annual Leave (increasing to 35 days with length of service) + Bank Holidays, Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme & Medical Cash
Are you ready to join a supportive and nurturing community that works together to achieve the very best outcomes for its pupils? If so, our new school in Leeds could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.
About the School
Located in Wigan, our new school offers a safe and supportive environment for pupils aged from 5 to 16 years old. With significant investment and an abundance of new resources, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to shape and mould the school to create a supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, engagement, and inspires learning. Our mission is to provide each pupil with a diverse and appropriate education that encourages aspiration and achievement.
We are part of the Polaris Community and have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. Within the Polaris Community, we have Six SEN Schools across the UK that work together to provide each pupil with a tailored, diverse, and appropriate education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning, and encourages achievement. Weβre also incredibly proud that 100% of our inspected services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.
Role responsibilities
- Maintaining clean, safe and secure school premises, which includes building and grounds;
- Carrying out cleaning, handy person activities, routine maintenance and refurbishment, porterage, and minor repairs;
- Some supervision of school cleaning staff;
- Promoting health and safety around the school;
- Carry out porterage duties, such as moving furniture and equipment around the school;
- Maintain the general school premises, furniture and fittings, and reporting any issues to the Head Teacher;
- Carry out small repairs and DIY projects;
- Arrange larger repairs and obtain quotes from contractors;
- Carry out daily cleaning and ad-hoc duties, such as litter picking and arranging the disposal of waste;
- Carry out emergency cleaning duties, such as gritting and cleaning up spillages;
- Arrange an annual deep clean of classrooms, staffrooms, kitchen, dining areas, food tech areas and other frequently used spaces on school premises;
- Take responsibility of the maintenance of cleaning tools and products, including arranging replacements and ensuring good stock levels;
- Maintain the security of the school premises as the main key holder;
- Lock and unlock the premises as required, including out of schools hours when necessary;
- Check at the end of the school day that all windows, doors and gates are locked, lights switched off, and gas and electrical appliances are turned off;
- Set security alarm systems, report any potential security breaches, and respond to any alarms or other call outs following agreed procedures;
- Carry out regular checks of CCTV and alarm systems, locks, fire safety appliances, security gates and perimeter fencing, and ensure any necessary repairs are actioned;
- Advise the Head Teacher on all matters relating to school security and safety;
- Ensure a safe working and learning environment in accordance with relevant legislation;
- Carry out and record regular health and safety checks, including on legionella risk, play equipment, safety equipment, and any hazards on school premises, report any problems to the Head Teacher;
- Provide safe access to the school in cold weather conditions.
The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS Check, cost of which will be met by Polaris. Polaris is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. Polaris is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.
School Caretaker employer: Polaris
Contact Detail:
Polaris Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of a school caretaker. Understanding tasks like maintenance, cleaning, and security will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any discussions or interviews.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former caretakers in educational settings. They can provide insights into the role and may even share tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
β¨Tip Number 3
Research the schoolβs values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can make a strong impression and show your commitment to their community.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with health and safety regulations. Since this role involves ensuring a safe environment, showcasing your knowledge in this area can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace School Caretaker
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the School Caretaker position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific duties.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience, particularly in maintenance, cleaning, and health and safety. Use bullet points for clarity and include any certifications or training that may be relevant to the role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the schoolβs mission. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully managed similar responsibilities in the past, and explain why you would be a great fit for their community.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role of a School Caretaker.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris
β¨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research the school's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to providing a supportive environment for pupils will help you align your answers with what they are looking for.
β¨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss any previous experience you have in maintenance, cleaning, or caretaking roles. Share specific examples of how you've handled similar responsibilities, such as managing cleaning staff or performing minor repairs.
β¨Demonstrate Health and Safety Awareness
Since the role involves ensuring a safe environment, be ready to talk about your knowledge of health and safety regulations. Mention any relevant training or certifications you have, and provide examples of how you've implemented safety measures in past roles.
β¨Show Enthusiasm for Working with Children
Express your passion for creating a safe and engaging environment for students. Share any experiences you have working with children or in educational settings, and explain why you believe your role as a caretaker is vital to their success.