School Caretaker in Bishops Stortford

Main purpose: We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, conscientious and self-motivated Caretaker to join our caring, hardworking estates team. We are looking for someone who will be proactive and take pride in maintaining a secure, safe, clean and attractive school environment for all users. Duties are varied and include security of the premises, non-specialist maintenance and repairs, cleaning and porterage. N.B. The duties listed below are not an exhaustive list of requirements. The specific nature and balance of these responsibilities will vary according to the needs of the school. General: 1. The school premises are used during evenings and weekends for school activities and by outside hirers. The Caretaker will by mutual agreement with the Estates Manager be expected to agree to work such additional (paid) hours as required for such lettings. 2. The Caretaker is required to contribute to and support the overall aims and ethos of the school. 3. All staff are required to participate in training and other learning activities, and in performance management and development as required by the schools’ policies and practices. Key responsibilities: 1. Ensure that buildings, site and resources meet standards of Health & Safety and cleanliness and that buildings and site and are secure and take remedial action if required. 2. Operate and regularly check systems such as heating, cooling, lighting and security (including CCTV and alarms). 3. Undertake minor works and repairs and maintenance of the buildings and site. 4. Arrange emergency repairs. 5. Monitor stock and order supplies. 6. Undertake general portage duties, including receiving deliveries, moving furniture and equipment, collecting and assembling waste for collection and driving the minibuses around site. 7. Assist with the maintenance of specialised equipment following training, for example sports/theatrical equipment. 8. Act as a designated key holder, providing emergency access to the school site outside of school hours. Whole-school organisation, strategy and development: 1. Arrange and/or undertake regular maintenance and safety checks. 2. Keep clear and appropriate records relating to maintenance and security, reporting to the Estates Manager as and when required. Health and Safety: 1. Undertake regular Health & Safety checks of buildings, grounds, fixtures and fittings and equipment (including compliance with fire safety regulations). 2. Monitor the work of and manage cleaning and other site staff (where appropriate). 3. Work with other staff to perform duties and complete risk assessments and ensure compliance within the school with all Health & Safety responsibilities for example COSHH, ladder, asbestos, legionella and asset register, taking action where hazards are identified. 4. Responsible for the careful and safe use of electrical and standard ICT and all other equipment in so far as it relates to work carried out. Supervision 1. Works under the direction of the Estates Manager and in cooperation with the estates team and other staff. Working with colleagues and other relevant professionals: 1. Facilitate lettings and carry out associated tasks. 2. Act as school contact in relation to premises related contractors. Management of staff and resources: 1. Oversee onsite maintenance and other contractors, checking that work is completed to required standards and within required timescales. 2. Works under the direction of the Estates Manager and in cooperation with the estates team and other staff. 3. To ensure the security of the site and lock up after special events. 4. To be vigilant throughout the school day with regard to visitors entering and leaving the site and to challenge unknown visitors when necessary. 5. To be available for callouts after hours, as much as is possible, on the rare occasions that an alarm goes off. Professional development: 1. Undergoes training suggested and offered by the Estates Manager. 2. Working at NVQ level 2 or equivalent or willing to do so. 3. Work with other staff to complete risk assessments and ensure compliance within the school with all Health & Safety responsibilities. Communication: 1. Communicates effectively with all parties to support the maintenance and security of the school premises and site. 2. Be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection; health and safety; confidentiality; and data protection and report all concerns to an appropriate person. 3. Effective in use of basic ICT (email, word etc.) so as to support own role and communication with others. Equalities 1. Be aware of and support difference and ensure that the school’s policies are followed. Knowledge, experience and training 1. Evidence of success in completing handyperson or DIY (paid or unpaid) tasks is desirable. 2. Knowledge of efficient cleaning methods and materials is desirable. 3. Experience of working in a school or similar environment is desirable but not essential. 4. Flexibility and sensitivity to the needs of a wide range of users of the school is essential. 5. Willingness to learn new skills and undertake training, including those for statutory requirements including, legionella, health & safety, COSHH. September 2025