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- Tasks: Maintain our daycare grounds and building while engaging in practical skills like carpentry and plumbing.
- Company: Acrewood Daycare CIC, a child-centred and educational environment.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a vibrant setting while developing valuable hands-on skills.
- Qualifications: Strong work ethic, good communication skills, and some experience in building maintenance.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
At Acrewood Daycare, we value an educational and child-centered approach. Our daycare operates across 3 main playrooms (0-2, 2-3, 3-5) with a small SEN cohort. As a groundskeeper/caretaker, your role centres around the upkeep of the grounds and building.
The ideal person would be adaptable in a busy setting and have good communication skills, as well as a passion for engaging with practical skills such as carpentry, decorating, plumbing, etc. (training provided). The candidate would also be responsible for keeping accurate records of works attempted and completed and would be involved in the building's fire safety plan. Enhanced Access NI and social services checks are required before any appointment can be confirmed. Opportunities for training will be provided.
Responsibilities- Assist management/staff with general building maintenance and upkeep, reporting to the manager.
- Assist with the upkeep of our outdoor space (weeding, leaf clearing, removal of rubbish/debris).
- Develop a detailed occurrence book to distribute to the facilities manager, and be able to maintain records and check and sign off works completed.
- Develop practical skills (carpentry, decorating, plumbing) and be able to keep maintenance of tools.
- Continuously build upon your knowledge of building maintenance e.g. concrete, cleaning, mowing, trimming, etc.
- Learning and assisting with daily walk-arounds, risk assessments and equipment checks.
- Fire risk training.
- Training to recognise and report signs of illness or abuse. All of our staff are safeguarding trained to an appropriate level.
- Learn how to identify risks and complete risk assessments.
- Knowledge of how common electrical/mechanical items work, and how to repair them.
- We are looking for someone with a strong work ethic - our building is almost 100 years old and there are always jobs to do, big or small!
- It is important that you have good written and verbal communication skills - you will have to keep a log and communicate with staff/management.
- We need someone who is flexible and adaptable; for example, most work would need to stop while the children sleep - you may need to reprioritise your work order.
- Ideally, you will have experience already with some form of building upkeep; general maintenance, decorating, groundswork - training will be provided but a strong background would be beneficial.
Job Start Opportunity - Working Hours Information:
- Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week.
- Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach.
- Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment.
The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.
Application InformationJobstart is open to working age benefit claimants who are deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office.
Contact Detail:
JobStart Scheme Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Caretaker / Groundskeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the place! Before your interview, take a stroll around Acrewood Daycare if you can. Familiarising yourself with the grounds and building will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and ready to jump in.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your practical skills! Whether it's carpentry or plumbing, be ready to chat about any hands-on experience you've got. We love seeing passion for practical work, so share your stories and how you’ve tackled similar tasks before.
✨Tip Number 3
Communication is key! Make sure to highlight your ability to keep records and communicate effectively with staff. We want someone who can keep everyone in the loop, so don’t shy away from discussing your past experiences in this area.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and keen to engage with us directly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Caretaker / Groundskeeper
How to prepare for a job interview at JobStart Scheme
✨Know the Space
Familiarise yourself with Acrewood Daycare's environment and values. Understand their educational and child-centred approach, and think about how your skills in maintenance and groundskeeping can enhance that setting.
✨Show Your Practical Skills
Be ready to discuss any hands-on experience you have with carpentry, plumbing, or general maintenance. Bring examples of past work or projects you've completed, as this will demonstrate your passion for practical skills and your adaptability in a busy environment.
✨Communication is Key
Since you'll be keeping records and communicating with staff, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated in a team or resolved issues through effective dialogue.
✨Emphasise Flexibility
Highlight your ability to adapt to changing priorities, especially in a childcare setting. Prepare to share instances where you've had to adjust your plans on the fly, particularly in relation to working around children's schedules.
