At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure the security and care of school buildings while maintaining a safe environment.
- Company: Join the supportive team at Sawtry Village Academy, part of Meridian Trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible hours with excellent career growth opportunities in a values-led organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant school community while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and knowledge of Health & Safety principles preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24600 - 29000 £ per year.
Are you an enthusiastic, reliable, and dedicated individual? We have a great opportunity for a Site Officer (Caretaker) to join a supportive, friendly team at Sawtry Village Academy. You would ensure the security and care of the school buildings, furniture, fittings, and equipment, alongside maintaining a safe physical environment with particular emphasis on the day‑to‑day management of the site. This is a hands‑on role; a trade skill and knowledge of general cleaning, maintenance operations, and Health & Safety would be an advantage.
The Opportunity
- To take pride in ensuring that the premises are in an acceptable state of tidiness and repair, providing a safe and secure learning environment.
- To be a focal point for the teams in respect of health and safety—for example, ensuring all risk assessments, workplace inspections, and other checks are completed in a timely and competent fashion.
- Managing external contractors, ensuring they work safely and in compliance with our safeguarding policies.
- Respond to Helpdesk requests for maintenance support from building occupiers through our maintenance and compliance management software tool, Iamcompliant.
- Utilise the Building Management System (BMS) to operate the buildings effectively and efficiently.
- Carry out maintenance and repairs to the building, furniture, and equipment within the scope of a competent handyperson.
- Respond to Iamcompliant Helpdesk requests from building occupiers in good time.
The ideal candidate
- Highly motivated, calm, and professional.
- Has experience of customer service.
- Committed, reliable, and able to build and sustain excellent working relationships.
- Is flexible, with high professional standards.
- Can use initiative, and work as part of a team.
- Confident using IT equipment, especially computers.
- Has a good understanding of Health & Safety best practice principles.
- Experienced in managing external contractors.
About Sawtry Village Academy
Sawtry Village Academy prides itself on the success and growth of young people that attend the school in the heart of the community. The school values are embedded in the everyday life at Sawtry Village Academy, where all staff promote and live by values that strive, value, and adventure to deliver high-quality education to become an even better school. Sawtry is a fast‑growing village with excellent transport links to the North and South via the A1/A14.
About Meridian Trust
Meridian Trust is a values‑led organisation formed in 2011 that has risen to be one of the highest‑performing academy trusts in the country. The Trust is founded on its commitment to a high‑quality educational provision for all at the heart of local communities. Meridian currently operates primary, secondary, and special schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire.
Meridian Trust offers a wealth of fantastic benefits for teaching and support staff which are highlighted below but are not limited to:
- Apprenticeship and CPD opportunities which allow you to gain specialist knowledge in a role you are passionate about developing in.
- Opportunity to jump start your career in teaching through our dedicated Initial Teacher Training Team (ITT).
- Support for mental health and wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and other resources.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Defined benefit local government or Teacher’s pension scheme.
- Healthcare benefits including free eye test vouchers and flu vaccinations.
- Free on‑site parking.
- Discounts on a wide range of benefits from everyday essentials to holidays.
To explore our full range of benefits, please visit our website.
For more information about the role please download the Applicant Information Pack or contact Maria Taylor, HR Officer, via email: recruitment@sawtryva.org.
Closing date for applications is: Monday 6th July 2026. Interview date: Wednesday 8th July 2026. Please note that we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date.
The Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships. The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches.
Site Officer (Caretaker) in Huntingdon employer: Sawtry Village Academy
Meridian Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment at Sawtry Village Academy, where you can take pride in maintaining a safe and secure learning space for students. With a strong commitment to employee growth through apprenticeship and CPD opportunities, as well as comprehensive benefits including mental health support and a cycle to work scheme, you will find a fulfilling career path that values your contributions and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Officer (Caretaker) in Huntingdon
✨Join Local Community Boards
Get involved in local community boards or forums related to janitorial services. You'll find job postings and connect with businesses in your area, which can really bolster your chances of landing that full-time gig at places like Sawtry Village Academy.
✨Network with Industry Pros
Don't underestimate the power of networking! Attend industry-specific events or workshops in your locality. Chatting with people already in the field can lead you to hidden job opportunities that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a simple portfolio that outlines your experience and specific skills in janitorial services. You can showcase before-and-after photos of your work or even testimonials from past employers. This can help you stand out when applying at places like Sawtry Village Academy.
✨Apply Directly and Keep it Local
When you see a full-time position that sparks your interest, don’t just apply online. If you can, walk into the company, like Sawtry Village Academy, with a smile and express your eagerness to contribute. Nothing beats meeting face-to-face and making that personal connection!
We think you need these skills to ace Site Officer (Caretaker) in Huntingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When showcasing your experience, focus on any previous roles in janitorial or cleaning services. Include specifics like the types of environments you've worked in – be it offices, schools, or hospitals – and mention any cleaning techniques or equipment you're familiar with. This will show Sawtry Village Academy that you’ve got the practical skills needed for the job!
Certifications Matter:If you have any certifications related to cleaning, health and safety, or equipment handling, make sure to include them in your CV. These can really set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety in your approach, which is crucial in the janitorial industry.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should explain why you’re interested in working with Sawtry Village Academy specifically. Talk about what excites you about the role and how you align with their values. Maybe you love maintaining cleanliness and creating a welcoming environment; let that shine through!
Get Your Availability Clear:Since this is a full-time position, be sure to mention your availability at the beginning of your application. Sawtry Village Academy will want to know that you can commit to the hours required, so throwing in your ideal working times can help ease any worry about schedule conflicts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sawtry Village Academy
✨Know Your Cleaning Techniques
Brush up on various cleaning techniques and equipment you're familiar with. Be ready to highlight specific experiences where you've tackled challenging cleaning situations. This could give the hiring team at Sawtry Village Academy a glimpse of your hands-on skills!
✨Safety First!
Make sure you're up-to-date on health and safety regulations relevant to janitorial work. We can expect some questions about how you handle hazardous materials or ensure hygiene—demonstrating knowledge here shows you're serious about your job and safety at Sawtry Village Academy.
✨Flexibility is Key
As this is a full-time role, be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shifts and potential overtime. Employers love to see candidates who are adaptable to changing schedules, so share experiences that highlight your commitment and reliability.
✨Present Your Experience!
If you have a portfolio or references from previous jobs in cleaning services, bring them along or have them ready to share. This can strengthen your case at Sawtry Village Academy, showcasing your work ethic and the quality of your previous roles in janitorial services.