At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the upkeep and development of beautiful grounds and gardens at a prestigious school.
- Company: Wycombe Abbey, a world-class full-boarding school for girls.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, fee remission, CPD training, and free sports centre access.
- Other info: Enjoy a beautiful campus with excellent transport links and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on stunning outdoor spaces.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in grounds management and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Wycombe Abbey seeks an experienced and hands-on Deputy Grounds Manager to support the upkeep and development of the School’s extensive grounds and gardens. This pivotal role supports the Grounds Manager in leading the team, maintaining high standards across sports pitches and landscaped areas, and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the grounds function.
Contract: This is a full-time, permanent contract. The first three months will be a probationary period.
Hours of Work: Monday to Friday 7.30am – 3.45pm plus every fourth Saturday 7.30am – 12.30pm, averaging a 37.5-hour week, 52 weeks per annum. A one-hour unpaid lunch break is included. Flexible hours will be required from time to time to meet operational needs, including School events and seasonal demands.
As Deputy Grounds Manager, you will play a key role in maintaining and developing the School’s grounds to an exceptional standard. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing and maintaining sports pitches
- Supervising the Grounds Team in the absence of the Grounds Manager
- Supporting health and safety compliance
- Maintaining machinery and equipment
- Coordinating tasks through the Estates Helpdesk system
This role is suited to a skilled and proactive individual with strong technical knowledge and the ability to lead by example in a busy and varied environment.
Benefits of working at Wycombe Abbey include:
- Enrolment in the School’s generous pension scheme
- Fee school remission at Wycombe Abbey and selected prep schools
- Generous CPD training and development scheme
- Free use of the Sports Centre
- Free eye tests
- Access to the Employee Assistance Programme
How to apply: Please see the job profile document for full information about this role. Applicants should complete the TES application form and submit this with a covering letter addressed to the Headmistress, Mrs J Duncan. Should you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact the HR Team.
Closing date for applications: 21 June 2026
Interview date: 29 June 2026
We reserve the right to appoint to this position before the closing date, should we receive a high volume of suitable early applications. Wycombe Abbey is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity with children.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all applicants are required to declare all unspent convictions and conditional cautions, and any spent convictions or adult cautions that are not protected, as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2020). We are an equal opportunities employer. Wycombe Abbey is a Disability Confident Committed Employer.
Deputy Grounds Manager employer: Wycombe Abbey
Wycombe Abbey is an exceptional employer that prioritises the safety and well-being of its community while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. With a strong commitment to employee development through CPD training and a comprehensive benefits package, staff members are encouraged to grow within a supportive environment. Located in a prestigious setting, this role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to a vibrant campus life while ensuring security and accessibility for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Grounds Manager
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Wycombe Abbey often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Grounds Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Wycombe Abbey does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wycombe Abbey
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Wycombe Abbey will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Wycombe Abbey.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Wycombe Abbey.
