At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain top-notch sports facilities and prepare pitches for various sports.
- Company: Radley College, a prestigious independent boarding school in beautiful Oxfordshire.
- Benefits: 33 days holiday, free meals, pension scheme, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy staff social events and wellbeing support while developing your skills.
- Why this job: Join a dedicated team and work outdoors in a stunning environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and ability to operate machinery preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Radley College is one of the UK’s leading independent boarding schools, set within 800 acres of outstanding Oxfordshire countryside. With a reputation for excellence in both sport and education, our grounds are among the finest in the country and central to College life. We are seeking a Groundsperson to join our dedicated team and help maintain our extensive sports facilities, including rugby and football pitches, cricket squares, tennis courts, and a golf course.
Working as part of the Grounds team, you will:
- Prepare and maintain high-quality sports surfaces and facilities
- Assist with cricket wicket preparation and seasonal renovations
- Mark out pitches and apply treatments such as fertilisers
- Operate and maintain grounds machinery
- Support the upkeep and presentation of the wider estate
About you
- Experience in grounds maintenance or sports turf (desirable)
- NVQ Level 2 qualification in sports turf maintenance or equivalent qualification
- Ideally PA1, PA6 and PA2 qualified
- Ability to operate machinery such as mowers or tractors
- Strong attention to detail and pride in your work
- A reliable, team-focused individual with a positive attitude
- Willingness to work outdoors in all conditions and undertake training
Working Hours
39 hours per week, Monday–Friday, with weekend work on a rota basis (paid as overtime), particularly during the cricket season.
Benefits
- 33 days’ holiday (including bank holidays)
- Pension scheme
- Free meals during term time
- Free parking and subsidised sports facilities
- Training and development opportunities
- Staff social events and wellbeing support
- Free uniform provided
Closing date for applications is 12 noon, Tuesday 26 May 2026. Radley College reserves the right to review applications as they are received.
Groundsperson in Abingdon employer: The Independent Schools Council
Radley College is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a stunning 800-acre estate while contributing to the maintenance of some of the finest sports facilities in the UK. With a strong emphasis on employee development, generous benefits including 33 days of holiday, free meals during term time, and a supportive work culture, Radley College fosters a team-oriented environment where staff can thrive both personally and professionally.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundsperson in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the grounds team! Reach out on social media or through networking events. Building a rapport with current staff can give us insights into the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have experience in grounds maintenance, bring it up during interviews. We love to see practical examples of your work, so be ready to discuss specific projects you've tackled.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for hands-on assessments! For a role like Groundsperson, we might ask you to demonstrate your machinery skills or pitch marking techniques. Practise these beforehand to show us what you can do!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team at Radley College.
We think you need these skills to ace Groundsperson in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Grounds Maintenance:When writing your application, let us know why you love working outdoors and maintaining sports facilities. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to grounds maintenance.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to mention any qualifications you have, like NVQ Level 2 in sports turf maintenance or any machinery certifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Be Detail-Oriented:Since attention to detail is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your meticulous nature. Whether it’s about maintaining high-quality surfaces or operating machinery, show us you take pride in your work.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Grounds
Familiarise yourself with Radley College's sports facilities and grounds. Research the types of pitches and courts they maintain, and be ready to discuss your experience with similar surfaces. Showing that you understand the specific requirements of each area will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your qualifications and any relevant experience in grounds maintenance or sports turf. If you have NVQ Level 2 or any machinery operation skills, highlight these during the interview. Be specific about the tasks you've handled and how they relate to the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Radley College values a reliable, team-focused individual. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team environment. Discuss any challenges you've faced and how you contributed to overcoming them, showcasing your positive attitude and willingness to support your colleagues.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Think about scenarios you might encounter on the job, such as dealing with weather-related challenges or maintaining equipment. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
