At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure the smooth running of the school, from security to maintenance and cleaning.
- Company: Friendly school environment looking for a reliable caretaker.
- Benefits: Live-in accommodation, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and free meals during term time.
- Other info: On-call requirement with extra pay and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a vibrant school community while enjoying great perks.
- Qualifications: Experience in caretaking is a plus; must have a full driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Our client is seeking a trustworthy, reliable and hardworking Resident Caretaker who will enjoy working in a friendly school environment. This live-in role will be responsible for a wide range of duties and responsibilities connected with the smooth, efficient and effective running of the school including:
- Carrying out security procedures for school buildings and grounds, specifically closing and lockdown of school premises, including gates, doors, windows, fire exits etc.
- Checking the proper operation and function of alarms and fire equipment.
- Reporting acts of vandalism and patrolling the site as required.
- Assisting with minor repairs as required.
- Acting as a keyholder in cases of alarm activation out of normal school hours.
- Responsible for the cleaning and safe and efficient working of the swimming pool plant.
- Assisting the Head groundsman for approximately 40% of the working day with grass cutting and leaf pick up in the Autumn.
- Working closely with the drivers to act as relief driver as and when necessary.
- Regularly inspecting the site and its operation to ensure Health & Safety practices are adhered to.
- Assisting the Maintenance Supervisor with moving such items of furniture/equipment as required.
Person Specification:
- Previous experience in a similar role is an advantage.
- Full drivers license (with no more than 6 points) and use of a vehicle is essential.
- Able to effectively organise own work and operate as a lone worker.
- Both orally and in written form and to understand and interpret written instructions.
- A proven record of a high level of attendance at work.
- Polite, courteous and calm under pressure.
- Able to show initiative and work proactively to ensure the smooth running of the site.
- An organised approach and excellent time management skills.
Hours:
- Monday – Friday, 12.30 noon – 9.30 pm - 34 weeks per year during term time.
- Monday – Friday, 9.00 am – 5.00 pm - 18 weeks per year during school holidays.
On-Call Requirement: One weekend per month (paid £100 per weekend).
The successful candidate will be required to undergo appropriate safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check, in line with school safeguarding policies.
Additional Information:
- Car driver is essential as no public transport links.
- 25 days paid holiday per year plus Bank Holidays and a Christmas closure period.
- Onsite accommodation provided: 2 or 3 bedroom apartment.
- Generous contributory pension scheme.
- Refreshments and lunch provided during term time.
- Cycle to work scheme for staff members.
- Parking for staff members is provided onsite.
Locations
School Caretaker in Guildford, Surrey employer: Optima Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Optima Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker in Guildford, Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school environment! Visit the school if possible, chat with staff, and understand their needs. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former caretakers and school staff on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a hands-on interview! Prepare to demonstrate your skills, whether it’s fixing something minor or showing how you’d handle security procedures. Show them you’re the right fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace School Caretaker in Guildford, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you fit into our friendly school environment.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience. If you've done similar work before, mention it! We love seeing how your skills align with what we’re looking for in a School Caretaker.
Follow Instructions: Read the job description carefully and ensure you follow any specific instructions for the application process. This shows us that you can pay attention to detail, which is super important for this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optima Recruitment
✨Know Your Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties outlined in the job description. Be ready to discuss how your previous experience aligns with tasks like security procedures, minor repairs, and health & safety practices. This shows you’re not just interested in the role but also understand what it entails.
✨Demonstrate Reliability
Since the role requires a trustworthy and reliable individual, prepare examples from your past work where you’ve shown dependability. Whether it’s maintaining attendance or handling responsibilities under pressure, having concrete examples will help you stand out.
✨Show Initiative
The school is looking for someone who can work proactively. Think of instances where you took the initiative to solve a problem or improve a process. This could be anything from suggesting a new cleaning routine to taking charge during an emergency situation.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school environment and the team you'll be working with. Inquire about the maintenance schedule or how the caretaker collaborates with other staff. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.