At a Glance
- Tasks: Carry out repairs, maintenance, and support school activities across various sites.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at Surbiton High School with diverse facilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a dynamic role where no two days are the same.
- Qualifications: Strong DIY skills, problem-solving abilities, and a clean driving licence preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a close-knit team committed to high standards and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
Start Date: ASAP
Contract: Permanent, full‑time (37.5 hours per week). Job‑share (2–3 days per week) considered
Salary: Competitive (based on experience and skills)
Surbiton High School spans over 11 sites, including the main Senior School, a purpose built Sixth Form, the Girls’ and Boys’ Prep Schools, Surbiton Assembly Rooms, Mary Bennett House, Charles Burney House, two large Sports Grounds (Hinchley Wood and Oaken Lane), the Boat House at Trowlock Way, and the Staff House. This wide variety of buildings and outdoor spaces means no two days are ever the same, offering a hands‑on and varied working environment.
The successful candidate will join our Maintenance Team, a close‑knit group of six skilled professionals who take pride in keeping all School sites safe, secure and looking their best. From day‑to‑day repairs and planned maintenance to supporting school activities and ensuring facilities are ready for use, the team plays a vital role in keeping the School running smoothly. With a strong focus on practical skills, health and safety, and efficient working, the team works together to maintain buildings, equipment and grounds to a high standard. As part of the School community, the Maintenance Team makes a real difference to the experience of pupils, staff and visitors across all sites.
What You Will Do:
- Carry out general repairs, maintenance and minor refurbishment work
- Support heating, lighting and safety systems
- Keep grounds tidy and pathways safe
- Assist with security, opening/closing and emergency call‑outs (keyholder duties)
- Carry out or support PAT testing
- Set up for events and transport items between sites
- Drive School minibuses as required (training available)
What We’re Looking For:
- Strong practical/DIY skills and experience in building or site maintenance
- Clean driving licence preferred; D1 minibus licence a bonus
- Good problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently
- Flexible, reliable, proactive and a strong team player
- Committed to maintaining high standards across all School sites
You’ll be joining a skilled, supportive team who take pride in keeping our School running smoothly. No two days are the same in this varied, hands‑on role. Surbiton High School is culturally diverse and fully committed to celebrating and respecting inclusion and diversity throughout our community. Surbiton High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service and online/social media searches.
Please note that the School reserves the right to appoint at any stage during the recruitment process. For any queries relating to the role or your application, please email recruitment@surbitonhigh.com
School Handyman/Handywoman employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Handyman/Handywoman
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Surbiton High School and its various sites. Understanding their values and community will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what the Maintenance Team is really looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, bring along a portfolio of your past work or even photos of projects you've completed. This hands-on evidence can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at Surbiton High School.
We think you need these skills to ace School Handyman/Handywoman
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your practical skills and any relevant experience in building or site maintenance. We want to see what you can bring to the team, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Read through the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Use similar language and focus on the qualities we’re looking for, like being proactive and a strong team player.
Be Yourself: We love a bit of personality! Don’t be afraid to let your character shine through in your application. Show us why you’d be a great fit for our close-knit Maintenance Team.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Skills
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your practical skills and experiences. Be ready to share specific examples of past repairs or maintenance tasks you've handled. This will show that you have the hands-on experience needed for the role.
✨Understand the Environment
Familiarise yourself with Surbiton High School's various sites and the types of maintenance work that might be required. Showing that you understand the unique challenges of maintaining multiple buildings will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Team Player Mindset
Since you'll be joining a close-knit team, emphasise your ability to work well with others. Share examples of how you've collaborated in previous roles, especially in situations where teamwork was essential to getting the job done efficiently.
✨Safety First
Highlight your knowledge of health and safety practices relevant to maintenance work. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure safety while performing repairs or working in different environments, as this is crucial in a school setting.