At a Glance
- Tasks: Fix problems, maintain facilities, and ensure a safe environment for students and staff.
- Company: Join Claires Court, a supportive school with a positive working culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role, pension scheme, free parking, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a dedicated Estates Team with visible results from your work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a dynamic role where every day brings new challenges.
- Qualifications: Practical maintenance experience and a positive, helpful attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20250 - 24750 £ per year.
A practical role where every day is different. Do you enjoy fixing problems, working with your hands and taking pride in seeing a job properly finished? Claires Court is looking for a reliable and experienced Maintenance and Caretaking Operative to join its Estates Team. This hands-on role will suit someone who enjoys variety, uses their initiative and is happy turning their skills to whatever the day brings.
One day you might repair a door, sort out a plumbing problem or assemble furniture. The next could involve safety checks, preparing rooms for an event or helping maintain the grounds and swimming pool. You will help keep the school's buildings, grounds and facilities safe, secure and well presented for pupils, staff and visitors.
About the role
You will carry out planned and reactive maintenance across the school sites, including general repairs, basic plumbing, simple electrical tasks, painting, decorating and carpentry. You will also support deliveries, room setups, grounds care, site security and routine compliance checks. Occasional out of hours callouts may be required, but these are infrequent and paid as overtime or given back as time off in lieu.
Key responsibilities
- Complete day to day repairs and general maintenance
- Diagnose faults and find safe, practical solutions
- Carry out basic plumbing, decorating, carpentry and minor electrical tasks
- Maintain doors, locks, windows, flooring, furniture and fittings
- Complete fire alarm and emergency lighting checks
- Support school events, deliveries and equipment moves
- Keep external areas and facilities safe and presentable
- Update maintenance jobs using a smartphone or computer
About you
You may have worked in maintenance, facilities, caretaking, property repairs or as a multi-skilled handy person. Previous school experience would be useful, but it is not essential. You will need practical maintenance experience, good judgement and the ability to prioritise urgent work.
You will also bring:
- A positive, practical and helpful approach
- Good organisation and time management
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A polite and professional manner
- The physical ability to lift equipment, use ladders and work outdoors
- A full, clean UK driving licence
- A trade qualification or relevant safety certificates would be useful, but are not essential.
What Claires Court offers
- A permanent Monday to Friday role
- A good pension scheme
- Free parking at each school site
- Uniform and equipment provided
- Meals and refreshments during the school day when the kitchen is operating
- Death in service cover and personal accident insurance
- Cycle to work scheme
- School fee concession, subject to qualifying conditions
- Regular professional development and training opportunities
- Overtime or time off in lieu for occasional callouts
- Varied work with visible results
- Supportive colleagues and a positive working environment
- The chance to become a valued member of the Estates Team
What Happens After You Apply?
Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received. A member of the recruitment team will contact suitable candidates to discuss their experience and interest in the role. Suitable candidates will be sent the Claires Court application pack. The completed form must be returned directly to the school. A CV cannot be accepted in place of the school's application form. Claires Court will review completed applications and invite shortlisted candidates to interview.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Claires Court reserves the right to interview and appoint before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged. Claires Court is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo appropriate child protection screening, including checks with previous employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. No agencies, please.
School Caretaker in Thatcham employer: Claires Court
Claires Court is an exceptional employer that prioritises the health and wellbeing of both its pupils and staff. With a supportive work culture, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for professional growth, our School Bank Nurse role offers a meaningful way to make a difference in the community. Located in Maidenhead, we provide a competitive salary and a rewarding environment where your contributions are valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker in Thatcham
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Claires Court's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Claires Court. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Claires Court
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Claires Court.
