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- Tasks: Assist in maintaining school premises and ensuring safety and security.
- Company: Join Cognita, a global leader in independent education with over 100 schools worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free lunches, school holidays, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team in a vibrant, newly renovated environment focused on student growth.
- Qualifications: Practical skills and excellent time management; driving minibus is a plus.
- Other info: Full-time role with shift rota to support out-of-hours activities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Overview
Premises Assistant – Cognita Schools, Leatherhead, Surrey, England
About the School
Downsend Sixth will have a different feel to other more traditional sixth form experiences. It will be housed in its own newly renovated space near the centre of Leatherhead and will have a connection with the rest of the Downsend community. Students will have a greater chance to cultivate independence, maturity and personal growth. The building will have state of the art technology and facilities to support development and flourishing.
Our curriculum is broad enough to give depth to each individual and students are supported by expert teachers who deliver outstanding lessons. We provide guidance on future pathways, whether that be university, vocational work or apprenticeship routes. The world our students will enter is rapidly evolving, and we have a critical role in preparing global citizens and workforces of the future. Our Head of Futures and other staff help guide students as they think about next steps. The Future Skills programme connects students with the wider world and, as part of Cognita (90 schools in 21 countries), helps present opportunities.
The school now has an exciting opportunity for a Premises Assistant to join our team.
Role Summary
In your role as Premises Assistant, you will assist in promoting the education and welfare of pupils in line with Downsend School aims and policies. You will work 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, drive school minibuses, manage site security, and perform minor repairs and health and safety tasks.
Responsibilities
- Maintain the premises and report hazards.
- Unlock and secure the site; respond to alarms.
- Manage the car park and maintain the swimming pool; ensure clear entrances.
- Monitor contractors, test alarms, assist with large displays, and move furniture.
- Support out-of-hours activities and lettings on a full-time, year-round shift rota.
This is a permanent, full-time role immediately available.
Role Profile and Requirements
To view the Role Profile, please click here.
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; full training provided)
- Excellent communication skills
- Flexible worker to ensure site coverage throughout and beyond the school day
Benefits
- Competitive salary depending on 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 15 February 2026.
Safeguarding and Diversity
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 are included within the Application Guidance.
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 the closing date for the right applicant.
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Premises Assistant employer: Cognita Schools
Contact Detail:
Cognita Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Premises Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Downsend School's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to creating a supportive environment for students will help you align your responses during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any practical skills you possess that are relevant to the role, such as carpentry or plumbing. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used these skills in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your flexibility and willingness to work varied hours. Since the role involves shift work, showing that you're adaptable and can cover out-of-hours activities will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
If you have experience driving minibuses, mention it! Even if you haven't driven one before, express your eagerness to learn and undergo training, as this is a desirable skill for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Premises Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Premises Assistant position. Understand the responsibilities and required skills, such as time management and practical skills like carpentry or plumbing.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous maintenance work, driving experience, or communication skills that would be beneficial in this position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the school. Mention specific reasons why you want to work at Downsend Sixth and how your skills can contribute to the school's aims and policies.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Schools
✨Showcase Your Practical Skills
As a Premises Assistant, practical skills are essential. Be prepared to discuss your experience with tasks like carpentry, plumbing, or painting. Bring examples of past work or projects that demonstrate your abilities.
✨Emphasise Time Management
This role requires excellent time management skills. During the interview, share specific instances where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, highlighting your ability to prioritise effectively.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this position. Be ready to explain how you have collaborated with teams in the past, and provide examples of how you’ve communicated important information clearly and concisely.
✨Be Flexible and Adaptable
The role involves working on a shift rota and responding to various situations. Discuss your flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing circumstances, and provide examples of how you've successfully navigated unexpected challenges in previous roles.
