At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our school clean, safe, and secure while supporting a nurturing environment for students.
- Company: Join a caring school community dedicated to making a difference in young people's lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your career in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in property maintenance, good DIY skills, and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Be part of a growing community focused on holistic education and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
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 new school in Ipswich could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.
Responsibilities
- Maintaining clean, safe and secure school premises, which includes building and grounds;
- Carrying out cleaning, handy person activities, routine maintenance and refurbishment, porterage, and minor repairs;
- Some supervision of school cleaning staff;
- Promoting health and safety around the school;
- 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 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 in cold weather conditions.
Qualifications
- Previous property maintenance/caretaking experience within a school environment preferred;
- 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;
- Must be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check prior to commencing work. Any costs incurred will be met by ISP;
- Must have a UK Driving License and own transport.
About the School
Located in Andover, our School has the capacity for up to 60 x Pupils and offers safe and supportive environments for pupils from 5 to 18 years old with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that academic progress is complemented by emotional well-being and personal growth. Andover School will form part of the Polaris Community alongside your current growing portfolio of school across the UK, which are all rated by Ofsted Good or Outstanding. The Polaris Community have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years.
Benefits
- 30 days Annual Leave (increasing to 35 days' with length of service);
- Bank Holidays;
- Company Pension;
- Life Assurance;
- Employee Discount Scheme;
- Medical Cash.
School Caretaker employer: Polaris Inc.
Contact Detail:
Polaris Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to research the school and its values. This will help you connect with the community and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! During the interview, be ready to share specific examples of your previous caretaking or maintenance experience. Highlight any DIY projects you've tackled or how you've ensured safety in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to ask about the school's approach to health and safety or how they handle maintenance issues. This shows you're proactive and care about creating a safe environment for the pupils.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, so don’t miss out on this opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better!
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 how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to maintaining a clean and safe environment for our pupils!
Show Off Your DIY Skills: Since the role involves some handy person activities and minor repairs, don’t forget to mention any relevant DIY skills or experiences you have. We love seeing candidates who can take initiative and tackle small repairs!
Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills: Good interpersonal skills are key when dealing with contractors and visitors. Share examples of how you've successfully communicated or collaborated with others in previous roles. We value teamwork and a positive attitude!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our supportive community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris Inc.
✨Know Your Responsibilities
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a School Caretaker. Familiarise yourself with tasks like maintaining clean and safe premises, carrying out minor repairs, and ensuring security. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're ready to take on the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous property maintenance or caretaking experience, especially in a school environment. Highlight any relevant skills, such as DIY abilities or knowledge of health and safety regulations, to show you’re a perfect fit for the job.
✨Demonstrate Interpersonal Skills
Since you'll be interacting with staff, contractors, and students, it's important to showcase your interpersonal skills. Be friendly and approachable during the interview, and share examples of how you've effectively communicated or resolved issues in past roles.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to health and safety or how they support their caretakers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.