At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming while handling maintenance and repairs.
- Company: Join North Lakes Children's Services, a supportive community dedicated to children's well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; perfect for those seeking part-time or job share opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in caretaking, building maintenance, and a good understanding of health and safety.
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 in Brampton employer: Polaris Careers
Polaris Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for teachers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Located in the picturesque Glengorse Estate in Battle, East Sussex, we provide our staff with opportunities for professional growth, a comprehensive benefits package including a company pension and life assurance, and a culture that values collaboration and innovation in education. Join us in our mission to inspire and empower students with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties, while enjoying a fulfilling career in a beautiful setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker in Brampton
✨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!
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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 School Caretaker in Brampton
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 Polaris Careers'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 Polaris Careers. 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 Polaris Careers
✨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 Polaris Careers.