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- Tasks: Maintain safe and clean school premises while supporting a nurturing environment for students.
- Company: Join North Lakes Children's Services, a supportive community dedicated to young people's growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Experience in caretaking, building maintenance, and a good understanding of health and safety regulations.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; part-time and job share options considered.
The predicted salary is between 26402 - 26402 £ per year.
Basic Salary: £26,402
Contract: Full Time 38.5 hours per week (Part-time considered)
Location: Haltwhistle and Brampton
Benefits: 30 days Annual Leave (increasing to 35 days with length of service), Bank Holidays, Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme & Medical Cash
We are looking to recruit an experienced Caretaker to look after two schools. Are you ready to join a supportive and nurturing community that works together to achieve the very best outcomes for its pupils? If so, our schools in Haltwhistle and Brampton could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people. We will also consider candidates that are looking to work part-time and the option of a job share with a caretaker at each school.
About the Schools
North Lakes Children's Services is a well-established local provider of residential care and education for boys aged 7-18. We improve the resilience, self-esteem and abilities of all the young people we work with. Our school is now an Accredited SILVER Award Attachment and Trauma Sensitive School, and we gained our first Outstanding Ofsted inspection in 2014.
Role responsibilities
- Provide caretaker services to two small to medium size school sites, a summary of tasks include:
- Maintaining clean, safe and secure school premises, which includes building and grounds;
- Carrying out cleaning, handy person activities, routine maintenance and refurbishment, and minor repairs;
- Some supervision of school cleaning staff;
- Promoting health and safety around the schools;
- Carry out porterage duties, such as moving furniture and equipment around the school;
- Maintain the general school premises, furniture and fittings, and reporting any issues to the Head Teacher;
- Carry out small repairs and DIY projects;
- Arrange larger repairs and obtain quotes from contractors;
- Carry out daily cleaning and ad-hoc duties, such as litter picking and arranging the disposal of waste;
- Carry out emergency cleaning duties, such as gritting and cleaning up spillages;
- Arrange an annual deep clean of classrooms, staffrooms, kitchen, dining areas, food tech areas and other frequently used spaces on school premises;
- Take responsibility of the maintenance of cleaning tools and products, including arranging replacements and ensuring good stock levels;
- Maintain the security of the school premises as the main key holder;
- Lock and unlock the premises as required, including out of schools hours when necessary;
- Check at the end of the school day that all windows, doors and gates are locked, lights switched off, and gas and electrical appliances are turned off;
- Set security alarm systems, report any potential security breaches, and respond to any alarms or other call outs following agreed procedures;
- Carry out regular checks of CCTV and alarm systems, locks, fire safety appliances, security gates and perimeter fencing, and ensure any necessary repairs are actioned;
- Advise the Head Teacher on all matters relating to school's security and safety;
- Ensure a safe working and learning environment in accordance with relevant legislation;
- Carry out and record regular health and safety checks, including on legionella risk, play equipment, safety equipment, and any hazards on school premises, report any problems to the Head Teacher;
- Provide safe access to the school's in cold weather conditions.
Requirements
- Previous caretaking experience within a school environment;
- Previous experience of building maintenance;
- Previous experience of security including alarm systems;
- Good knowledge and understanding of health and safety regulations;
- Basic DIY Skills;
- Good Interpersonal skills to protect the school's interests in dealing with contractors and other visitors to the site;
- Good literacy and numeracy skills;
- Ability to work in an environment with SEMH children;
- Full driving licence and access to own car;
- Willingness to travel between both sites.
The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS Check for this position. North Lakes Children's Services is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
School Caretaker employer: North Lakes Children
Contact Detail:
North Lakes Children Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the schools! Before your interview, take a stroll around Haltwhistle and Brampton. Familiarise yourself with the areas and the school environments. This shows you’re genuinely interested and helps you connect better during the chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about the key responsibilities listed in the job description and prepare examples from your past experience that showcase your skills. We want to hear how you’ve tackled similar tasks before!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss health and safety! Since this role involves maintaining a safe environment, brush up on relevant regulations and be prepared to share how you’ve ensured safety in previous roles. It’s a big deal for us!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace School Caretaker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience as a caretaker. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your previous caretaking and maintenance work!
Show Your Passion: Let us know why you’re excited about working in a school environment. Share your enthusiasm for supporting children and creating a safe, clean space for them to learn and grow. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and your key points stand out. This helps us get a quick understanding of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Lakes Children
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your caretaking experience, especially in a school environment. Be ready to discuss specific tasks you've handled, like maintenance and security protocols, as well as any health and safety regulations you’re familiar with.
✨Show Your Interpersonal Skills
Since you'll be working closely with staff and students, it’s crucial to demonstrate your good interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated or resolved issues with contractors or staff, and be prepared to share these during the interview.
✨Be Prepared for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your basic DIY skills and problem-solving abilities. You might be asked how you would handle a specific maintenance issue or emergency situation, so think through some scenarios beforehand.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
With the role involving travel between two sites, emphasise your willingness to adapt and manage your time effectively. Share any past experiences where you successfully juggled multiple responsibilities or locations, showing that you're ready for the challenge.