Premises Assistant

Willow Dene is a large special school in Plumstead for children aged 2‑19 across two sites. We are a forward‑thinking and innovative school that is committed to providing an outstanding education for children with a wide range of learning needs. Willow Dene forms part of the exciting Compass Eko Trust which is a family of 28 schools working as one system to improve the outcomes for every child. We are united by a clear commitment: every child achieving without exception. We aim to inspire all children to engage confidently with the world and develop the knowledge and skills from across the curriculum that enable them to thrive.

By working as one, we maximise the knowledge and skills of all the adults in our schools. We share the very best practice and learning from the research that will make a difference to the progress and achievement of all children. This partnership provides immense opportunities to develop the quality of provision and outcomes, and the sharing of good practice. We are a research‑engaged community and are constantly seeking new and innovative ways of developing teaching for learning.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• To undertake the day‑to‑day maintenance, repair and cleaning of the school.
• To assist in ordering and arranging delivery and storage of materials and equipment.
• To undertake routine grounds maintenance to ensure the upkeep of garden, grassed and amenity areas, equipment and site services, operating and machinery.
• To ensure that the school site is kept clean, safe and in a good state of repair and stocked with all necessary supplies.
• To carry out regular checks and inspections of the premises, equipment and grounds.
• Keeping accurate manual and computerised records where appropriate.
• To monitor work requests on the premises housekeeping software.
• Ensuring that day‑to‑day maintenance tasks and requests for minor works are undertaken as expediently as possible and actions recorded in a timely manner.
• To attend regular meetings with the premises team as appropriate.

Induction

Induction programmes and training will be provided for the successful candidate. As part of our Trust, you will be part of a professional community where:

• Schools work together, sharing expertise and improving practice.
• Staff benefit from strong professional networks and collaboration across schools.
• Development is supported through coaching, CPD and leadership pathways.
• You are not working in isolation – you are part of a wider system.

Our offer

• Competitive pay and conditions aligned to national frameworks.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS).
• Access to a structured programme of professional development.
• Opportunities to work across schools and develop your career.
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 confidential support.
• Access to staff benefits and discount schemes.
• Family‑friendly policies and flexible working options where possible.

Compass Eko Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to appropriate pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. This role is Grade 4 SCP 7. Working Days: Monday to Friday. Working Hours: 7 hours per day, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (with one hour for lunch).