Grounds Assistant

Are you practical, hardworking and take pride in maintaining high-quality outdoor spaces? We are looking for a reliable, enthusiastic and proactive Grounds Assistant to join our premises and facilities team at our secondary school in South East London. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in their work and is passionate about maintaining safe, attractive and well-presented school grounds.

Working closely with the Facilities Manager and wider premises team, you will play an important role in ensuring that the school's outdoor areas, playing fields, gardens, pathways and surrounding grounds are maintained to a high standard, providing a safe and welcoming environment for pupils, staff and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Carrying out general grounds maintenance across the school site.
• Maintaining lawns, grassed areas, playing fields, borders, hedges and planted areas.
• Undertaking grass cutting, strimming, edging, weeding, pruning and seasonal planting.
• Keeping pathways, entrances, playgrounds and external areas clean, tidy and free from debris.
• Collecting and disposing of leaves, litter and general outdoor waste.
• Supporting the preparation and maintenance of sports pitches and outdoor recreational areas.
• Carrying out routine inspections of the grounds and reporting any damage, hazards or maintenance requirements.
• Ensuring outdoor areas are safe and accessible for pupils, staff and visitors.
• Operating grounds maintenance equipment and machinery safely and responsibly, following appropriate training.
• Maintaining tools, machinery and equipment, ensuring they are stored securely.
• Supporting seasonal grounds maintenance programmes and responding to changing weather conditions.
• Assisting with the setting up and clearing away of outdoor areas for school events, sports fixtures and activities.
• Supporting the wider premises team with general site duties when required.
• Adhering to all school health and safety procedures and safe working practices.

The Ideal Candidate

• Has experience in grounds maintenance, gardening, landscaping or a similar practical outdoor role.
• Has a genuine interest in maintaining outdoor spaces to a high standard.
• Is physically fit and comfortable undertaking manual work outdoors in different weather conditions.
• Has experience using grounds maintenance tools and equipment, or is willing to undertake relevant training.
• Is reliable, punctual and takes pride in their work.
• Has good organisational skills and can manage their workload effectively.
• Can work independently and as part of a wider premises team.
• Demonstrates initiative and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Understands the importance of health and safety when working in a school environment.
• Is flexible and willing to support the wider operational needs of the school.

A relevant grounds maintenance, horticultural or landscaping qualification would be advantageous, as would experience operating grounds maintenance machinery. Previous experience working within a school or educational setting would also be beneficial but is not essential.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a positive contribution to the school community.
• A supportive and friendly working environment.
• Opportunities for training and professional development.
• Access to relevant equipment and training to support the role.
• A varied outdoor role with seasonal responsibilities.
• The opportunity to develop your skills and experience within school premises and grounds management.

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment.