At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the maintenance and security of our school site, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.
- Company: Join the dedicated team at Piper Hill High School, committed to excellence in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, job security, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be a key player in creating a safe and inspiring space for students and staff.
- Qualifications: Experience in caretaking or site management, with strong leadership and organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 34848 - 42592 £ per year.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Caretaker to join our fantastic team at Piper Hill High School. This is a permanent post working 35 hours per week, all year round with a starting salary of £29,064. (Grade 5) Interviews will take place the week commencing 7th September 2026. The successful candidate will join us as soon as pre-employment checks are complete.
About the role:
As Lead Caretaker, you will play a key role in ensuring our school site, buildings and specialist facilities are safe, secure, well-maintained and welcoming. Working closely with the Site Manager/Operations Manager, you will help oversee the day-to-day management of the school site and provide effective leadership to the estates team.
You will be responsible for:
- Supporting the day-to-day management and development of the school site, buildings and specialist facilities
- Acting as a keyholder and managing site security systems, including alarms, CCTV and surveillance systems
- Leading and supervising estates staff, including allocating work, monitoring performance and supporting staff development
- Ensuring the school site is maintained to a high standard of cleanliness, presentation and safety, both inside and outside
- Supporting the delivery and monitoring of the school’s Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) programme
- Ensuring statutory and routine checks are completed and accurately recorded, including fire bells, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting and fire doors
- Coordinating general maintenance and repairs, ensuring work is completed swiftly, safely and to the required standard
- Supporting the estates repairs and maintenance helpdesk and associated systems
- Managing and supervising external contractors, maintaining effective relationships and monitoring performance
- Overseeing grounds maintenance, including maintaining safe access to the site during periods of severe weather
- Supporting the maintenance and upkeep of specialist equipment and facilities across the school
- Supporting the management of cleaning provision and liaising with catering and other external service providers where required
- Supporting the school lettings process and working with external providers
- Ensuring an effective site service and supporting the set-up of furniture and equipment for school events, examinations, meetings and other activities
- Playing a lead role in maintaining high standards of health and safety, security and compliance across the site
- Supporting risk assessments and ensuring health and safety policies and procedures are followed
- Maintaining accurate records and information relating to buildings, facilities, maintenance and compliance
- Responding promptly to site emergencies and attending call-outs when required
- Working flexibly as part of an agreed shift pattern
Who we’re looking for:
We’re looking for a proactive, practical and experienced estates professional who takes pride in maintaining a safe, well-managed school environment.
You will have:
- Significant experience in a relevant discipline, ideally senior caretaking or site management experience within a school or similar environment
- Strong knowledge of health and safety and hygiene procedures, including an awareness of COSHH regulations
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to plan and deliver maintenance programmes effectively
- Experience of managing staff, supporting their development and promoting a positive performance culture
- Experience of working with and supervising external contractors
- Good IT skills and the ability to maintain accurate records and use building/facilities management systems
- Experience of Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) management would be advantageous
- Experience of managing budgets and preparing costed plans for repairs and maintenance would be advantageous
- Good numeracy and literacy skills, with the ability to maintain accurate records
- The ability to undertake the physical aspects of the role safely
- Relevant Health & Safety training, such as First Aid, Fire Safety, Fire Evacuation or Legionella Awareness, would be advantageous
- A full valid driving licence, or willingness to obtain one, would be desirable
- A flexible and adaptable approach, with the ability to prioritise effectively and work unsociable hours when required
- A collaborative approach and the ability to communicate with staff, students, parents, contractors and other stakeholders with tact and diplomacy
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who is committed to maintaining high professional standards and who will contribute positively to the vision, values and continued improvement of our school and Trust.
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.
Lead Caretaker employer: Piper Hill High School
Piper Hill High School is an outstanding employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Located in Wythenshawe, the school offers a rewarding environment where Teaching Assistants can make a significant impact on students' lives, with opportunities for professional development and collaboration with a dedicated team. Join us to be part of a community that values education and empowers both staff and students to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Caretaker
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Caretaker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Piper Hill High School's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Piper Hill High School. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Piper Hill High School
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Piper Hill High School.
