Flexible Learning School is seeking a reliable, proactive and practical Caretaker to join our Hockley site. You will play a key role in maintaining a safe, secure and welcoming environment for our pupils, staff and visitors by undertaking day-to-day maintenance, health and safety checks, and site management duties. This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive, Ofsted-registered independent alternative provision where your contribution will have a direct impact on the learning environment and the wellbeing of young people.
Based at our Hockley site and reporting directly to the Headteacher, this is a part-time position, ideally working Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 12:00pm (hours can be agreed with the successful candidate). Salary will be dependent on experience, and we are looking for someone who takes pride in maintaining high standards and enjoys being an integral part of a dedicated school community.
Job Purpose
To ensure that the Hockley site is maintained to a high standard, providing a clean, safe, secure and welcoming environment for pupils, staff and visitors. The post holder will undertake caretaking duties, minor maintenance and repairs, health and safety checks, and ensure the school premises and surrounding grounds remain in good order at all times.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Premises Maintenance
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Ensure the school building is maintained in a clean, safe and presentable condition.
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Carry out minor repairs and maintenance, including carpentry, painting, decorating and basic plumbing where appropriate.
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Replace light bulbs, tighten fixtures and fittings, assemble furniture and undertake general handyman duties.
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Report any significant repairs or maintenance issues requiring specialist contractors.
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Liaise with contractors when required and monitor work carried out on site.
External Areas
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Ensure all external areas, entrances, pathways and car parking areas are clean, safe and free from litter.
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Sweep and maintain external walkways.
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Empty external waste bins.
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Ensure external areas remain free from hazards.
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Undertake seasonal maintenance including leaf clearance and gritting where necessary.
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Monitor fencing, gates and perimeter security.
Health & Safety
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Carry out regular health and safety inspections of the premises.
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Complete and maintain health and safety records, including routine inspection logs.
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Undertake weekly fire alarm testing.
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Carry out emergency lighting checks.
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Check fire extinguishers and report servicing requirements.
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Ensure fire exits remain unobstructed.
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Identify hazards and report any defects immediately.
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Assist with risk assessments where appropriate.
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Ensure compliance with Health and Safety legislation.
Security
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Open and secure the premises as required.
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Ensure doors and windows are secure.
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Operate alarm systems where required.
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Monitor the security of the premises throughout the working day.
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Report any incidents of vandalism or unauthorised access immediately.
Cleaning & Housekeeping
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Ensure communal areas remain clean and tidy throughout the day.
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Remove waste and ensure bins are emptied appropriately.
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Assist with arranging furniture for meetings and events.
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Maintain storage areas in an organised and safe manner.
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Ensure cleaning supplies and maintenance materials are stored safely.
Compliance
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Maintain accurate maintenance records.
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Maintain statutory inspection records.
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Assist with contractor records.
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Support compliance with:
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Health and Safety at Work Act
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Fire Safety Regulations
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COSHH Regulations
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Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
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School policies and procedures
General Duties
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Assist with deliveries.
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Move furniture and equipment as required.
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Undertake porterage duties.
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Assist during emergency situations.
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Carry out any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role.
Safeguarding
Flexible Learning School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to:
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Safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils.
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Follow all safeguarding and child protection procedures.
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Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
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Undertake mandatory safeguarding training.
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Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.
This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and all safer recruitment checks in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
Person Specification
Essential
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Experience of caretaking, facilities or building maintenance.
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Ability to carry out minor repairs and general maintenance.
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Good practical DIY skills.
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Knowledge of basic health and safety principles.
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Ability to maintain accurate records.
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Good communication skills.
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Ability to work independently using own initiative.
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Reliable, trustworthy and punctual.
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Flexible approach to work.
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Commitment to safeguarding children.
Desirable
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Previous experience working within a school or educational setting.
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Knowledge of fire safety procedures.
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First Aid qualification (or willingness to undertake training).
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Basic knowledge of COSHH.
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Experience liaising with contractors.
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Full UK driving licence.
Key Competencies
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Organisation and planning
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Attention to detail
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Problem solving
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Reliability
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Team working
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Communication
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Health and Safety awareness
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Customer service
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Confidentiality
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Professionalism
Conditions of Employment
The successful applicant will be expected to:
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Comply with all school policies and procedures.
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Participate in relevant training and professional development.
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Maintain confidentiality at all times.
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Promote equality, diversity and inclusion.
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Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
This job description is intended to describe the principal duties and responsibilities of the role. It is not an exhaustive list, and the post holder may be required to undertake other duties commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post as reasonably directed by the Headteacher.
