At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure schools are safe and well-maintained while managing DIY and maintenance tasks.
- Company: Join St Christopher’s, a supportive team dedicated to creating great learning environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, local government pension, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in schools while developing your skills in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: DIY skills and a proactive attitude towards maintenance and safety.
The predicted salary is between 32243 - 39408 £ per year.
Base: St Sidwell's Primary School, Exeter covering also Ladysmith Infant/Junior Schools
Contract: Permanent, 20 hours - 6.30 am to 10.30 am (0.54 FTE), 5 days a week, All Year Round.
Pay Scale: St Christopher’s SC3 Scale point 8 to 11, starting salary £14,976.71 (£27,709 FTE)
Closing Date: 27th November 2026 9.00am
Interview Date: 02nd December 2026
Start Date: ASAP
St Christopher’s is looking for a Caretaker who can:
- Deliver excellent H&S, Caretaking and maintenance to multiple sites.
- Help manage the maintenance and caretaking needs of Schools at Ladysmith Infant and Ladysmith Junior School in Exeter.
- Be hands on with maintenance issues.
- Be the first point of contact for all maintenance issues and have competency in DIY and maintenance.
- Work with a team.
- Report to the Site Manager as part of a small, passionate Estates team who work to create great learning environments in our 21 primary and infant schools.
- Be responsible for keeping our schools safe and compliant.
- Support a large Primary School in Exeter and be flexible enough to help other schools with your expertise.
- Take a lead and show initiative.
- Be a solution focussed, values-driven individual who can communicate well with contractors and staff.
- Have a ‘hands on’ approach to maintenance tasks and understand the level of statutory compliance required.
In return we offer you:
- A competitive salary with good terms and conditions.
- Annual Pay increments.
- Local government pension scheme, with employer contribution of 17.2%.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Tax free childcare.
- Free on-site car parking.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Health and Safety training.
- Estates and Compliance training to help you develop in your role.
- Commitment to personal development and CPD.
If you would like to discuss the role, please contact dean.wheable@stcmat.org.
Interviews to take place Wednesday 2nd December 2026.
Please note it is our process to apply for references for shortlisted applicants and to complete online searches in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, for all shortlisted applicants. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this post.
We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants who meet the criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age or veteran status.
School Caretaker employer: St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery
St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery is an attractive employer due to its commitment to employee welfare and professional development. The school fosters a collaborative work culture where staff can thrive and make a meaningful difference in children's lives. Employees benefit from a generous pension scheme and a supportive team environment.
Contact Details:
St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Caretaker
✨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
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 St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery'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 St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery. 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 St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery
✨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 St Sidwell's Church of England Primary School & Nursery.
