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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Caretaker, handling maintenance tasks and emergency requests.
- Company: Be part of a dedicated estates team in Thatcham.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, 25 days holiday, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience and the chance to make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in maintenance or caretaker roles is essential; a driving license is required.
- Other info: Flexible hours with on-call cover; training provided for health and safety.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 £ per year.
Job Description
School Caretaker Afternoons/Evenings
Shift Pattern: 12.30pm 9.00pm, Monday to Friday
Salary: Up to £27,507 per annum
Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls based in Cold Ash, near Thatcham. Our Estates team is committed to the upkeep of our attractive school site and ensuring the safety of pupils and staff at all times.
We are looking for an experienced and reliable Caretaker to join our friendly team. The duties are varied, including site security, responding to emergency requests, and undertaking a range of maintenance tasks. You will need previous maintenance experience, ideally in a school or hotel environment, and will also need to be proactive and trustworthy. A current driving licence is required.
Part of this role will involve covering as relief Caretaker (for up to 25 days of the year), where you will be required work the shift pattern of the Residential Caretaker including on-call overnight shifts – we will provide onsite accommodation for you during these shifts.
Main Duties
- To carry out any minor maintenance tasks as directed by your manager, or that have been reported through the school system
- To act as out-of-hours site security
- To carry out the school lock up, including locking doors and windows, security inspections, and perimeter walks
- To liaise with house staff about maintenance issues in the boarding houses
- To assist with the set-up of events when required
- To ensure that health and safety standards are maintained at all times
Benefits Include
- 25 days annual leave
- Free lunch and dinner while on duty
- Generous employer Pension Scheme
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
How to apply
Application forms can be downloaded by clicking 'apply' at the bottom of this advert.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks.
At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Up to £27,507 per annum
Closing Date: 31st January 2025
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Caretaker employer: Downe House School
Contact Detail:
Downe House School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Caretaker
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your previous experience in maintenance or caretaker roles during the interview. Be ready to discuss specific tasks you've handled, especially those related to emergency responses and site security.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your reliability and professional work ethic by providing examples of how you've successfully managed responsibilities independently in past positions. This will show us that you can handle the demands of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Since the role requires flexibility with working hours, be prepared to discuss your availability for on-call cover and night shifts. Showing that you're adaptable will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarize yourself with health and safety standards relevant to caretaking. Being knowledgeable about these regulations will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Caretaker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in maintenance or caretaker roles. Emphasize your skills in health and safety, communication, and any specific tasks you've handled that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and your commitment to maintaining high standards. Mention your flexibility with working hours and your ability to respond to emergency situations.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your experience with site security checks, emergency maintenance, and any certifications related to health and safety or first aid training.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Downe House School
✨Show Your Maintenance Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in maintenance or caretaker roles. Highlight specific tasks you've handled, such as emergency repairs or routine maintenance, to demonstrate your capability.
✨Emphasize Communication Skills
Since good communication is essential for this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with team members or responded to emergencies in the past. This will show that you can handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
The job requires a flexible approach to working hours, including on-call cover. Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to work outside of standard hours, as well as any relevant experiences you've had in similar situations.
✨Understand Health and Safety Standards
Familiarize yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to caretaking. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your work and any training you've received, as this is a key aspect of the role.
