At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead woodworking sessions and manage a vibrant community workshop.
- Company: Horsforth Shed, a community-focused workshop transforming lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help reduce social isolation through creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Woodwork expertise, workshop management experience, and a passion for community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 € per year.
About Horsforth Shed
Horsforth Shed is a flourishing community workshop that emerged from the transformation of a semi‑derelict former Scout Building. The vision is to use the workshop to reduce social isolation and to go beyond the traditional Man Shed model by engaging school children who are not in mainstream education. In 2019 a Charitable Incorporated Organisation was established and, as the building is owned by St James Church Woodside, church members are well represented on the trustee body. The church sees the Shed as part of the support it offers the local community. The first stage involved the total renovation of the building. With support from local businesses, grants, donations and volunteer labour, we created a first‑class facility that opened in 2021 and is now operated on a hybrid model of morning sessions for school groups, afternoon sessions for adults and occasional evening sessions for Cub, Beaver and Scout groups.
Future
We are now in an exciting stage of our development and are seeking to employ a full‑time Shed Manager to:
- develop the vision and outreach of the Shed
- confidently lead our team of staff and volunteers
- ensure consistent delivery of sessions
- expand our volunteer team
Purpose of the Job
To confidently lead, positively promote and develop the vision of the Horsforth Shed on behalf of the trustees. Lead woodworking sessions, ensure that safe working practices are adhered to at all times and maintain a safe environment.
Responsibilities
- Maintain the welcoming atmosphere, creativity and safe working practice that exists in all of our groups.
- Manage, recruit, train and supervise paid staff and volunteers, including sessional workers.
- With the support of the Session Supervisors, welcome new members to the Shed and carry out inductions in line with the induction policy.
- Manage stock and routine maintenance, ensuring workshop equipment is maintained to health and safety standards.
- Find innovative ways to increase the engagement of the Shed with a wider variety of groups.
- Keep the trustees updated on session activities and any issues or incidents that arise.
- Administer simple first‑aid when appropriate and know the procedure for dealing with any medical emergencies (training will be provided).
- Maintain records of attendance.
- As a key holder for the building, be responsible for opening and closing.
Administrative Support
- Ensure sufficient staffing for all sessions.
- Explore funding opportunities and potential new business.
- Promote the Horsforth Shed, including occasional updates to the website.
- Ensure safeguarding procedures are maintained.
- Ensure all financial transactions are recorded and approved.
Contract & Hours
Annualised hours based on 37.5 hours per week, working Monday to Friday with potential evening and Saturday work occasionally required within the annualised hours. Salary: £35,000 p.a. Workplace pension scheme: Employee 5%, Employer 3%. Annual leave: 28 days (including some fixed leave at Christmas, Easter and summer).
Employee Specification
In order to fulfil the requirements of the post, candidates will only be shortlisted for interview if they can demonstrate that they meet the following requirements.
Skills / Knowledge / Qualifications
- Significant woodwork skills and workshop experience with excellent working knowledge of tools and major workshop equipment
- A good understanding of the requirements of workshop management and maintenance
- Experience of teaching or training others
- Good organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage workloads
- An enterprising approach that seeks to develop the work of the Shed
- Previous management of staff or volunteers
- Experience of working with vulnerable adults and young people
- Basic competence in IT
Behavioural and Other Related Characteristics
- Have sympathy or alignment with the Christian Faith.
- Understand and support the mission and values of the work of the Horsforth Shed.
- Proactive and self‑motivated.
Application Process
Candidates will be required to submit a CV with a covering letter outlining how they meet the skills and requirements of the role. The email address for applications is horsforthshed@gmail.com. Candidates are invited to visit the Horsforth Shed prior to submitting an application by contacting horsforthshed@gmail.com. Closing date for applications: midday on Monday 13th April 2026. Horsforth Shed will notify receipt of your application by close of play on Monday 20th April 2026. Interviews will take place on Wednesday 29 April 2026 (pm). There will be a two‑stage interview process:
- A practical test which will be set for you on the day.
- An interview with a panel of three.
Any offer of employment will be subject to the receipt of suitable references and an enhanced DBS check. The successful applicant will be subject to a six‑month probationary period.
Shed Manager in Horsforth employer: Horsforth Shed
Horsforth Shed is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to reducing social isolation and engaging with the community. As a full-time Shed Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a passionate team, develop innovative outreach programmes, and contribute to the personal growth of both staff and volunteers in a supportive environment. With competitive benefits including a generous annual leave package and a workplace pension scheme, working at Horsforth Shed offers a meaningful and rewarding experience in a newly renovated community workshop.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shed Manager in Horsforth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Horsforth Shed before applying! Swing by for a visit, chat with the team, and soak up the vibe. This will not only help you understand the community better but also show your genuine interest when you apply.
✨Tip Number 2
When you get that interview, be ready to showcase your woodwork skills! Bring along examples of your work or even a portfolio. It’s all about demonstrating your hands-on experience and passion for the craft.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your leadership experience! Whether it’s managing volunteers or leading workshops, share specific stories that show how you’ve successfully guided teams in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, make sure to express your alignment with the mission of the Horsforth Shed. Talk about why community engagement matters to you and how you can contribute to reducing social isolation through your role as Shed Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Shed Manager in Horsforth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the Shed and its mission shine through. We want to see how much you care about reducing social isolation and engaging with the community!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for someone with woodwork skills and workshop management experience, so don’t hold back on those details!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Shed Manager role. Be specific about how your background aligns with our vision and how you can contribute to our community.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Horsforth Shed
✨Know Your Workshop Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of woodworking skills and workshop management. Brush up on the tools and equipment you'll be using, as well as health and safety standards. This will not only help you in the practical test but also show your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or volunteers in the past. Think about times when you’ve trained others or led projects. Highlight your ability to create a welcoming atmosphere and engage with diverse groups, as this is key for the Shed Manager role.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the mission and values of the Horsforth Shed. Be ready to discuss how your personal beliefs align with their community-focused approach. Showing that you understand and support their vision will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for the Practical Test
Since there’s a practical test involved, practice your woodworking skills beforehand. Think about how you can demonstrate safe working practices and effective teaching methods during the test. Being confident in your abilities will help you shine on the day.
