At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our school clean and safe, creating a welcoming environment for students and staff.
- Company: Join Abbey Gardens School, part of Acorn Education, committed to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day working week, competitive pay, and great wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive team while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills, time management, and a positive attitude are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a new specialist school opening in April 2026.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 9000 £ per year.
Location: Abbey Gardens School, Bury St Edmunds, IP32 6SA
Salary: £8,864.25 per annum / £13.25 p/h (not pro rata)
Hours: 15 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 3.00pm-6.00pm
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: March 2026
UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
About the Role
Abbey Gardens School is seeking a dedicated and reliable Cleaner to play a vital role in keeping our school environment clean, safe, and ready for learning every day. This role is about more than cleaning — it’s about being part of a supportive team that helps children, staff, and the wider school community thrive. As a Cleaner at Abbey Gardens School, you will maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the school, helping to create a healthy, welcoming, and positive environment for everyone.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out daily and periodic deep-cleaning duties across the school, including classrooms, toilets, floors, surfaces, and internal glass
- Maintain excellent standards of cleanliness and hygiene in line with agreed schedules and quality expectations
- Safely use cleaning products and equipment in accordance with COSHH and Health & Safety regulations
- Manage waste and recycling efficiently, including emptying bins and disposing of waste correctly
- Report any maintenance, security, or Health & Safety concerns promptly to the appropriate manager
- Work professionally and collaboratively under the direction of the Caretaker, Headteacher, and Senior Leadership Team, following all school policies and procedures
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Ability to communicate clearly and follow instructions
- Good time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively
- A positive, flexible attitude and a strong work ethic
- Commitment to equality of opportunity and inclusion
- Physically fit and able to meet the demands of the role
- Pride in maintaining high standards and contributing positively to a team
- Full UK Driving Licence
Desirable
- Previous cleaning experience
- Knowledge of, or training in, COSHH regulations
- Confidence working independently and using initiative
- Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people
About Us
Abbey Gardens is a brand-new specialist school, part of Acorn Education, opening in April 2026. The school will provide a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for pupils with SEMH needs. Designed for young people aged 11–18, Abbey Gardens will offer personalised support to help every learner thrive. This exciting new provision is committed to building confidence, resilience, and positive futures.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase contributions “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including: Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits Hundreds of UK and international discounts Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.
School Cleaner in Cheshire employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Cleaner in Cheshire
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a look at Abbey Gardens School's website and social media. Understanding their values and mission will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of #teamOFG.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions for cleaning roles and prepare your answers. Highlight your attention to detail and teamwork skills, as these are key for maintaining a clean and safe environment for everyone.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it's a cleaning role, showing up smartly dressed can make a great first impression. It shows that you respect the opportunity and are ready to represent the school positively.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace School Cleaner in Cheshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When 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 can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Mention any previous cleaning experience or knowledge of health and safety regulations that could set you apart from other candidates.
Follow Instructions: Read the job description carefully and ensure you follow any specific instructions in the application process. This shows us that you can pay attention to detail, which is super important in this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to explore more about what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a School Cleaner. Familiarise yourself with the importance of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in a school environment, as well as the specific tasks you'll be expected to perform.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role is all about being part of a supportive team. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences working collaboratively and how you can contribute positively to the team at Abbey Gardens School.
✨Demonstrate Your Reliability
Employers want to know they can count on you. Share examples from your past where you've shown commitment and reliability, especially in roles that required good time management and following instructions.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to cleanliness and how the cleaning team collaborates with other staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school community.