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- Tasks: Lead grounds and gardens teams to maintain and enhance beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at Bradfield College, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
- Benefits: Enjoy a pension scheme, health cash plan, free parking, and subsidised sports memberships.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while working in a tranquil setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds management and horticulture; GMA Level 4 preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
If you are an experienced grounds management professional, with a reputation for excellence, and thorough knowledge of practical and technical aspects of sports turf management, then this position offers an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role maintaining, conserving and enhancing the beautiful grounds and gardens of Bradfield College and St Andrews School.
As Grounds Manager, you will lead the grounds and gardens teams and play a vital role in shaping the visual and ecological character of Bradfield College's extensive grounds, which span over 280 acres and sit within a designated conservation area and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). You will be responsible for the maintenance, conservation and enhancement of Bradfield College's external sports facilities, outdoor spaces, including landscaped gardens and woodland areas, preserving the natural charm of the site and providing first class sports facilities in a tranquil and inspiring setting for pupils, staff, and visitors alike, aligning with Bradfield's ethos of respect for the environment and its role in community wellbeing.
Additional responsibilities will include the development of seasonal and weather dependent schedules of work, the monitoring and management/preservation of trees, in addition to managing grounds and gardens improvement projects and minimising the impact of maintenance activities on the environment to support our environmental sustainability goals.
In addition to your garden management experience and horticulture expertise, you will also possess considerable knowledge of working in conservation areas and AONBs. A GMA Level 4 qualification or equivalent, IOSH Managing Safely and ILM Level 3 or equivalent, are desirable qualifications for this role. You will also have the ability to motivate and encourage staff and will be organised, methodical and used to overseeing working schedules. You will demonstrate an excellent understanding of health and safety and actively promote a positive culture towards it throughout your role. Proficiency in the operation and maintenance of sports turf machinery is equally important. You will also need to be capable of undertaking all aspects of grounds management and the physical challenges of the role.
Bradfield College offers a variety of benefits, such as:
- Contributory workplace pension scheme and 3 x life cover
- Subsidised membership of the College Sports Centre and Golf Club
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- BHSF Health Cash plan
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Electric Vehicle scheme
- Free parking and lunch provided when the College kitchens are open
For further details and to apply please click the apply button. The closing date for applications is 8th February 2026. Applications will be processed as they are received, and we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. Bradfield College reserves the right to make an appointment at any time, so early applications are encouraged. Bradfield College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening as part of their application, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Grounds Manager in Reading employer: Bradfield College
Contact Detail:
Bradfield College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the grounds management field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at industry events or local meet-ups related to grounds management. It's a great way to meet potential employers and showcase your passion for the field. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn about the latest trends and techniques!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow companies like Bradfield College on platforms like LinkedIn and engage with their posts. It’s a fantastic way to get noticed and show your enthusiasm for their work.
✨Tip Number 4
When you find a job that excites you, apply through our website! Tailor your application to highlight your experience in conservation areas and sports turf management. Make sure to emphasise your leadership skills and commitment to environmental sustainability.
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Grounds Management: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for grounds management shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your love for maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces and how you align with our ethos of respect for the environment.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Use relevant terminology and examples from your experience that demonstrate your expertise in sports turf management and conservation.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Grounds Manager, you'll be leading teams, so don’t forget to showcase your leadership abilities! Include examples of how you've motivated and organised teams in previous roles, and how you’ve successfully managed projects or schedules.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bradfield College
✨Know Your Turf
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sports turf management and conservation areas. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in the past to maintain and enhance grounds, especially in AONBs. This shows you're not just experienced but also passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Grounds Manager, you'll be leading teams, so prepare examples of how you've motivated and organised staff in previous roles. Think about times when you successfully managed projects or improved team performance, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Safety First!
Health and safety is crucial in grounds management. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've promoted a positive safety culture in your previous positions. Highlight any qualifications like IOSH Managing Safely that you possess.
✨Be Environmentally Conscious
Bradfield College values environmental sustainability, so come equipped with ideas on how to minimise the impact of maintenance activities on the environment. Discuss any past initiatives you've led or been part of that align with these goals, showing your commitment to eco-friendly practices.
