At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the management and maintenance of our school site, ensuring safety and cleanliness.
- Company: Join a supportive team at MEA Central, dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, health plans, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a commitment to safeguarding children.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a vibrant school environment while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in site management, strong organisational skills, and hands-on maintenance abilities.
The predicted salary is between 29064 - 29064 £ per year.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Caretaker to join our fantastic team at MEA Central. This is a permanent, full‑time role 35 hours per week, all year round, with a starting salary of £29,064 Grade 5. The successful candidate will join us in September 2026.
About the role
As Lead Caretaker, you will play a crucial role in supporting the Site Manager and overseeing the day‑to‑day management and maintenance of the school site. You will be responsible for:
- Managing and developing the school’s buildings and specialist facilities
- Acting as a keyholder and managing site security, including alarms and CCTV
- Delivering hands‑on site caretaking, including cleanliness and site presentation
- Leading in the delivery of the school’s Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) programme
- Ensuring statutory checks are completed and recorded (fire alarms, extinguishers, emergency lighting, etc.)
- Supporting grounds maintenance and maintaining safe access during all weather conditions
- Coordinating repairs, overseeing contractors and managing the estates helpdesk system
- Line‑managing other members of estates team, including recruitment, performance, and development
- Monitoring health & safety compliance across the site and addressing any issues promptly
- Taking a proactive role in site security and emergency response
- Working closely with cleaning and catering contractors, where required
- Supporting school events by managing site set‑up and logistics
Who we’re looking for
We’re seeking a dedicated and experienced professional with:
- Significant experience in a similar site/estates management role, ideally in a school or similar environment
- Excellent knowledge of health and safety, hygiene procedures, and site compliance
- Confidence managing staff and external contractors
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to work flexibly and independently
- Hands‑on maintenance skills and the ability to respond to emergencies effectively
- IT literacy and experience using facilities systems and records
- Relevant health & safety training and a full driving licence would be advantageous
Benefits
- High quality CPD for all roles
- Bupa Level 1 Health Plan – annual cash back allowance for a range of everyday health care expenses
- Generous Pension Contribution – over 26% for teachers and over 17% for support staff
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days with 5 years’ service
- Cyclescheme – save up to 39% on a bike and accessories and get Strava for free
- Employee Assistance Programmes – including access to free counselling and 24/7 helplines
- Credit Union – regular savings, Christmas saving scheme and access to affordable loans
- Flexible working options – we’re happy to talk flexible working where possible
- Mental Health First Aid in every school
- Blue Light Card – discounts on holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones, and many more
- bYond cashback card – spend smarter with a prepaid cashback card for your everyday purchases
How to Apply
Please follow the online application process to be considered. CVs are not accepted. Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early. All school staff are expected to share the Trust’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Specific safeguarding responsibilities are detailed in the attached job description. We will conduct online searches on shortlisted candidates to identify any relevant issues for interview discussion. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a self‑disclosure declaration. If you have lived or worked outside the UK in the last five years, additional information will be required. This role does not sponsor visa applications and requires the right to work in the UK. Job offers are contingent on satisfactory pre‑employment checks, including references. Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 all positions within the School are exempt. Therefore, we are entitled to carry out Enhanced Disclosure checks for all staff and volunteers. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relating to children.
Safeguarding Commitment
All schools within the Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
Equality Statement
Prospere Learning Trust values diversity and welcomes applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.
For application support, contact us on 0161 527 7953 or email jobs@prospere.org.uk.
Lead Caretaker in Manchester employer: Meacentral
At MEA Central, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With generous benefits such as a robust pension scheme, flexible working options, and comprehensive health plans, we ensure our team members feel valued and empowered in their roles. Join us in making a meaningful impact within the school community while enjoying a fulfilling career with ample growth opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Caretaker in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values before your interview. Research their mission, recent events, and any community initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice common interview questions related to site management and health & safety. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role of Lead Caretaker. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to prepare some questions for your interviewers! Ask about their current projects or challenges they face. This shows that you’re proactive and engaged, plus it gives you a chance to see if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow our application guidelines!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Caretaker in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of Lead Caretaker, so make sure you highlight relevant skills and experiences that match what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Experience:When filling out the application, don’t hold back on showcasing your previous experience in site management or caretaking. We love seeing hands-on maintenance skills and any health and safety knowledge you have, so make sure to include those!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your answers are easy to read. This helps us get a quick understanding of your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, early applications are encouraged, so don’t wait too long to hit that submit button!
How to prepare for a job interview at Meacentral
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations, as well as the specific maintenance tasks relevant to a school environment. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed site security or led a team. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your hands-on experience.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle emergencies or manage contractors. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making skills.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready about the school's facilities or future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
