At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security for pupils, staff, and visitors while conducting routine checks.
- Company: Join a prestigious independent school in Westminster, known for its commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy free school meals, gym access, and a Cycle to Work Scheme after probation.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team, making a real impact on the school community's safety.
- Qualifications: Previous security experience is a plus; strong communication and customer service skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible shifts required, with opportunities to assist at key school events.
The predicted salary is between 25780 - 36470 £ per year.
Teaching careers in HMC independent schools
Security and Fire Officer (full-time, permanent)
We are currently seeking to fill the position of Security and Fire Officer (full-time, permanent).
Required for: August 2025
Location: Deans Yard – Westminster School
Contract: full-time, permanent
Hours of work: 40 hours per week, details below
Salary: £30,975 per annum
Benefits include:
– free School meals whilst on duty
– free access to the School’s leisure facilities, including a fitness gym (restricted hours)
– access the School’s Cycle to Work Scheme and season ticket loans following completion of our standard probation period
The closing date for this role is midday on Tuesday 15th July 2025. Interviews will take place shortly after the closing date.
We are seeking a professional and customer-focused Security and Fire Officer to join our Security Team. We are looking for someone who can work effectively both independently and as part of a team, with strong situational awareness and the ability to respond calmly and efficiently in emergencies.
The role will assist in ensuring a safe, secure environment for our pupils, staff, and visitors. Responsibilities will include conducting routine checks, logging incidents, and escorting visitors as required.
Security experience would be advantageous, and a good working knowledge of health and safety practices is essential. The ideal candidate will be friendly, approachable, and possess excellent customer service and communication skills.
The role is full-time and will require flexibility to work shifts between 07.00am to 11.00pm, Monday to Friday and 07.00am to 07.00pm on Saturdays, as well as attending key School events.
Full-time hours are 40 per week working for 52 weeks of the year.
Working as part of the Site Services team, the role will include
- Maintaining the security of the school premises and its contents. This includes patrolling buildings within the Estate
- Following procedures to enable access to buildings as required throughout the year, and ensure that all buildings are secured each night
- Monitoring alarms and CCTV
- Reporting security & fire incidents through the Incident Reporting System and to the Security and Fire Manager
- Communicating with the team in a daily log
- Controlling the allocation of keys through maintaining a daily log
- Assisting Reception in the greeting and receiving of visitors and contractors
- Being ready to escort visitors or contractors on site
- Understanding how to use the Access Control System to provide appropriate access rights for members of the school community
- Monitoring and (as directed) controlling those entering and leaving Little Dean’s Yard including the use of gates and signage as and when required
- Assisting with school events as required.
- Working with security from Westminster Abbey to ensure an effective working relationship with others who share the site
- Testing and inspecting manual fire call points & inspecting portable firefighting equipment
- Delivering letters and parcels to the Post Room or as required
- Maintaining appropriate conduct and demeanour and be correctly dressed at all times
- Undertaking suitable training to enable the tasks and duties required to carry out the job
- Carrying out other tasks, as may be instructed by the Security and Fire Manager, Head of Site Services, Director of Estates or other senior members of the School Management.
Please note this job description is not exhaustive. Any significant and permanent amendments to the document will be made after consultation with the job holder.
Little Dean\’s Yard, Westminster, London, SW1P 3PF
12 The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Security and Fire Officer (full-time, permanent) employer: HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
Contact Detail:
HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Security and Fire Officer (full-time, permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific security and fire protocols relevant to educational institutions. Understanding the unique challenges faced in a school environment will help you demonstrate your situational awareness during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Westminster School or similar institutions. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've had to respond to emergencies or security incidents. Highlighting your calmness and efficiency in such situations will showcase your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your customer service skills by thinking of examples where you've successfully interacted with the public or managed difficult situations. This is crucial as the role requires a friendly and approachable demeanour.
We think you need these skills to ace Security and Fire Officer (full-time, permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Security and Fire Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your security experience, health and safety knowledge, and customer service skills. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the school. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your ability to maintain security and respond effectively in emergencies. Make it personal and engaging.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
✨Know Your Security Protocols
Familiarise yourself with basic security and fire safety protocols. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various emergency situations, as this role requires strong situational awareness and a calm response in crises.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Since the role involves interacting with pupils, staff, and visitors, showcase your excellent communication and customer service skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed interactions or resolved conflicts.
✨Show Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Prepare to share instances where you collaborated effectively with others, especially in high-pressure situations, as teamwork is crucial in maintaining a secure environment.
✨Dress Appropriately
Make sure to dress professionally for the interview. As the role requires maintaining appropriate conduct and demeanour, presenting yourself well will reflect your understanding of the job's expectations.