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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the safety and maintenance of our vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join a global leader in independent education with a unique community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free lunches, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of students in a modern setting.
- Qualifications: Practical skills and excellent time management; driving minibus is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a chance to grow within a supportive community.
About the School – Downsend Sixth
In order to make an application, simply read through the following job description and make sure to attach relevant documents.
We are incredibly proud to be opening Downsend Sixth and see this next chapter for Downsend School as an exciting and enticing prospect for both staff and students alike. The buildings, environment and experience will give our students an excellent foundation on which to build their own futures.
Downsend Sixth will have a different feel to other more traditional sixth form experiences, housed in its own newly renovated space near the centre of Leatherhead, there will remain a connection with the rest of the Downsend community, but students will have a much greater chance to cultivate independence, maturity and a real opportunity for personal growth. The building will have state of the art technology and facilities that will allow all students to develop and flourish.
Our curriculum is broad enough to give real depth to each individual and students will be supported by expert teachers who will deliver outstanding lessons. We will provide expert guidance on future pathways, whether that be going to university, into the world of work or starting an apprenticeship course.
At Downsend we are very conscious that the world our students will step into when they leave us is rapidly evolving and changing, and we have a critical role to play in preparing the global citizens and workforces of the future. Our Head of Futures, along with other staff will be on hand to help support and guide our students as they think about next steps.
In an increasingly interconnected world, future workers will be expected to collaborate with peers residing in various parts of the globe, understand cultural nuances and, in many cases, use digital tools to enable these new types of interactions. Our Future Skills programme will allow our students to connect with this wider world and being part of Cognita, a global educational group who have 90 schools located in 21 different countries, will facilitate so many more opportunities for these experiences to present themselves.
The school now has an exciting opportunity for a Premises Assistant to join our fantastic team.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries, in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East, serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, \’Thrive in a rapidly evolving world\’.
About the role
In your new role as Premises Assistant, you will be assisting in promoting the education and welfare of pupils in line with Downsend School\’s aims and policies, this role involves working under the Head of Facilities to ensure the safety and security of the school sites. The position requires collaboration with the Premises team to handle general site maintenance, driving school minibuses, managing site security, and performing minor repairs and health and safety tasks.
Responsibilities include maintaining the premises, reporting hazards, unlocking and securing the site, responding to alarms, managing the car park, maintaining the swimming pool, and ensuring clear entrances. Additionally, you will be monitoring contractors, testing alarms, assisting with large displays, and moving furniture. This full-time, year-round role operates on a shift rota to support out-of-hours activities and lettings.
This is a permanent, full-time role immediately available.
To view our Role Profile, please .
Who we are looking for:
*Excellent time management skills
*Practical skills (e.g. Carpentry, painting and decorating or plumbing repairs)
*Ability to drive the school minibus (desirable as full training will be provided)
*Excellent communication skills
*Flexible worker to ensure site coverage throughout and beyond the school day
Benefits at Cognita
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Free lunch provided during Term Time
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 15th February 2026.
Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. xiskglj
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant
Premises Assistant employer: Cognita Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cognita Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Premises Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Downsend Sixth and its values. When you understand what makes them tick, you can tailor your approach and show how you fit into their vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just put your name in front of the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to the role. Think about your practical skills and how they align with the responsibilities of a Premises Assistant.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Downsend community.
We think you need these skills to ace Premises Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see that you understand what we're looking for in a Premises Assistant, so make sure you highlight relevant skills and experiences that match our needs.
Show Off Your Practical Skills: Since this role involves hands-on tasks like maintenance and repairs, don’t be shy about showcasing your practical skills. Whether it’s carpentry or plumbing, let us know what you can do and how it relates to keeping our school running smoothly.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can manage time effectively and communicate well!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our school there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Ltd
✨Know the School and Its Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Downsend School and its ethos. Understand their commitment to fostering independence and personal growth in students. This will help you align your answers with their values and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Showcase Your Practical Skills
As a Premises Assistant, practical skills are key. Be ready to discuss your experience with maintenance tasks like carpentry or plumbing. Bring examples of past work or projects you've completed, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in this role, especially when collaborating with the Premises team and managing site security. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated in previous roles, whether it was coordinating with colleagues or addressing safety concerns.
✨Be Flexible and Ready to Adapt
The job requires flexibility to cover various shifts and out-of-hours activities. During the interview, express your willingness to adapt to changing schedules and responsibilities. Share any experiences where you've had to be flexible in your previous roles, as this will show you're a team player.
