At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Grounds Team to maintain and enhance beautiful school landscapes and sports facilities.
- Company: Downe House, a prestigious independent school for girls aged 11-18.
- Benefits: Generous pension, free meals, gym access, and a supportive induction programme.
- Other info: Early applications encouraged; own transport essential due to rural location.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team in a stunning semi-rural environment and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Required July 2026, full time. Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based near Thatcham, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and co-curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women prepared to take on the world.
Job purpose
We are looking to appoint a skilled Head Groundsperson to ensure that the school landscape and manicured areas look attractive, welcoming and well-kept at all times. As Head Groundsperson you will guide the Grounds Team and interact with other line managers, working collaboratively with colleagues as part of a professional team. Duties include maintaining, conserving and enhancing the prestigious grounds and sports facilities as directed by the Head of Maintenance and Facilities. You will demonstrate an understanding of health and safety and actively promote a positive culture towards it throughout your role. This is a practical role which will involve outside work on the grounds, safe operation and adjustment to a wide range of equipment and use of machinery and equipment and delegating work to a small team or to contractors on occasions.
Benefits Include
- Generous pension scheme - 9% employer contribution
- Delicious free meals while on duty
- Life insurance and critical illness cover
- Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
- A supportive induction programme
- Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
Applications will be processed as they are received and interviews may take place before the closing date, so early application is recommended. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK – we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks. At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Head Groundsperson employer: The Independent Schools Council
Downe House is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of its staff. With generous benefits such as a 9% employer pension contribution, free meals, and access to modern gym facilities, employees enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance in a beautiful semi-rural setting. The school is dedicated to professional growth, providing opportunities for collaboration and development within a team committed to nurturing confident young women.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Groundsperson
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like The Independent Schools Council.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like The Independent Schools Council.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at The Independent Schools Council; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Groundsperson
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at The Independent Schools Council.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Head Groundsperson.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what The Independent Schools Council is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at The Independent Schools Council a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at The Independent Schools Council might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
