At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain a safe and secure campus while handling various practical maintenance duties.
- Company: Join Smile Education, a dedicated team focused on safeguarding and supporting education.
- Benefits: Full-time role with ongoing reviews until August 2026 and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied shifts and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a vibrant educational setting while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in education environments and practical maintenance skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 37440 £ per year.
Smile Education are recruiting for an experienced Caretaker/Handyperson to start ASAP at a large further education campus in Solihull. This is a full-time temporary position on an ongoing rolling month-by-month basis, currently authorised until 31st August 2026, with regular reviews in line with the organisation's long-term staffing requirements.
The Role
As a Caretaker/Handyperson, you will play a vital role in supporting the Estates team to maintain a safe, secure, and well-presented campus environment. Working proactively within a reactive team, you will carry out a wide range of practical maintenance and caretaking duties, responding to the day-to-day needs of staff, students, contractors, and visitors across a large and busy campus. This is a 37-hour per week role. For the first two weeks, working hours will be 8:00am – 4:00pm.
- Early Shift Monday to Thursday: 6:00am – 2:00pm
- Friday: 6:00am – 1:00pm
- Late Shift Monday to Friday: 11:00am – 7:00pm
Please note that shift patterns are expected to change from September.
Responsibilities
- Supporting the day-to-day maintenance and operation of the campus
- Carrying out basic maintenance, repairs, and refurbishment tasks
- Responding promptly to reactive maintenance requests from departments across the site
- Working collaboratively with the Estates and Caretaking team to ensure the campus remains safe and operational
- Assisting with site set-ups, parking arrangements, and operational support during large events
- Maintaining good professional relationships with staff, contractors, and visitors
- Responding effectively to emergency situations and unexpected site issues
- Helping to ensure the campus remains clean, secure, and well-maintained at all times
- Working proactively whilst managing a varied and physically demanding workload
Requirements
- Previous experience working within an education environment (essential)
- Experience providing practical site services to a range of customers
- Experience working as part of a team to support projects and operational requirements
- Ability to respond calmly and effectively to emergency or difficult situations
- Good practical maintenance and repair skills
- Ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues, customers, and contractors
- Reliable, proactive, and able to work using your own initiative
- No formal qualifications are required
- Current Enhanced DBS Certificate (essential)
- Able to start as soon as vetting is complete
Why work with Smile Education?
We are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. All applicants will be subject to compliance checks, including Enhanced DBS, Right to Work, reference checks, and any other vetting requirements relevant to the role.
School Caretaker/Handyman employer: Smile Education
Smile Education is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing work culture that prioritises wellbeing and inclusivity. As a SENDCO in Redditch, you will be part of a supportive leadership team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on students' lives, with ample opportunities for professional growth and the potential for a permanent position.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker/Handyman
✨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 School Caretaker/Handyman
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 Smile Education'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 Smile Education. 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 Smile Education
✨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 Smile Education.
