At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the day-to-day operation and maintenance of our vibrant school environment.
- Company: St Mary’s Catholic School, a welcoming community focused on Christian values.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 24 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and development in a rewarding role.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real difference in students' lives every day.
- Qualifications: Practical skills, reliability, and a proactive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 26668 - 27079 € per year.
St Mary’s Catholic School is seeking a School Caretaker to join our estates team at our large secondary school located in the centre of Bishop’s Stortford. This is a varied and active role, ideal for someone who enjoys meeting and working with a variety of people, practical work, problem-solving and supporting a busy school environment.
You will work alongside a team of caretakers and liaise closely with contractors, cleaning companies and external service providers. The role requires the ability to work independently, show initiative and maintain high standards across the school site.
Key Information- Working pattern: All year round, including school holidays
- Holidays: 24 days annual leave, plus 9 bank holidays
- Hours: 37.5 hours per week, typically 7.30 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.
- Additional paid hours: As required (for example, parents’ evenings, governors’ meetings and school events)
- Driving licence: Full driving licence (or working towards one)
- Support the day-to-day operation, maintenance and security of the school site.
- Ensure the buildings, grounds and facilities are safe, secure, clean and well-maintained, in line with health and safety requirements.
- Monitor, operate and carry out routine checks on systems such as heating, lighting, cooling, alarms and CCTV.
- Undertake minor repairs, maintenance and general site tasks to support the efficient running of the school.
- Assist with site security, opening and closing procedures and compliance with safeguarding expectations.
- Support lettings and events, including evening and occasional weekend work.
- A reliable, practical and hardworking individual with caretaking, trade or DIY skills and a proactive approach.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a caretaker/estates team.
- Ability to undertake evening duties as and when required.
- Good communication skills and the confidence to deal with a wide range of people.
- Basic IT skills appropriate to the role.
- Willingness to learn and develop skills.
Whatever your level of experience, if you bring the right attitude, reliability and enthusiasm, we would love to hear from you. A DBS disclosure is required for all successful applicants. St Mary’s is committed to the equality of opportunity for all applicants, and we reserve the right to interview on a rolling basis and close the application window early, therefore an early application is advisable.
Caretaker employer: Catholic Recruitment
St Mary’s Catholic School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values the contributions of all staff members. With a commitment to professional development and a strong focus on community engagement, employees enjoy a fulfilling role in maintaining a safe and welcoming school for students and families alike. The school's central location in Bishop’s Stortford provides easy access to local amenities, making it an ideal place to work year-round.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Caretaker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around the area and familiarise yourself with St Mary’s Catholic School. This shows you’re genuinely interested and helps you connect with the environment during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your practical skills! Be ready to share examples of your DIY or caretaking experience. Whether it’s fixing things around the house or helping out at community events, we want to hear how you’ve tackled challenges head-on.
✨Tip Number 3
Be a people person! Since you’ll be working with students, staff, and contractors, highlight your communication skills. Share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully interacted with different groups in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter and supporting our mission in the school environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Caretaker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see who you are beyond your qualifications. Share a bit about your interests and what makes you tick, especially if it relates to working in a school environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Caretaker at St Mary’s. Highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's DIY skills or working with people. We love seeing how your background fits with our school ethos!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and get straight to the important bits. This will help us understand your qualifications and enthusiasm quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catholic Recruitment
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand St Mary’s Catholic School's ethos and values. This will help you align your answers with what they stand for, showing that you're not just a good fit for the role but also for the school community.
✨Showcase Your Practical Skills
As a caretaker, practical skills are key. Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have in maintenance, DIY, or problem-solving. Bring examples of past work or situations where you've successfully tackled challenges, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
You'll be working closely with a variety of people, so highlight your communication skills and ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've effectively collaborated with others in previous roles, especially in busy environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations, like dealing with a maintenance emergency or ensuring safety standards. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and prepare your responses to show your initiative and problem-solving skills.
