Overview
Are you passionate about animals, horticulture, and working outdoors? The Dorset Centre of Excellence, which includes Coombe House School, is seeking a part-time Farm Worker / Assistant (including weekends) to support the care of our animals, farm projects, and the ongoing development of our farm and walled garden. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of our growing team, contributing to the therapeutic and educational environment we provide.
This post is for up to 28 hours per week (7 hours on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday). We are also open to a job-share arrangement, where two people would each work 14 hours per week (to include one weekday and one weekend day).
Working closely with the Farm Manager, you will help deliver daily animal care, assist with seasonal growing projects, and maintain the farm’s infrastructure and habitats. This role is vital in ensuring high standards of animal welfare and supporting the wider aims of the school and the Dorset Centre of Excellence.
Key Responsibilities
* Daily care of animals including feeding, cleaning, and enrichment.
* Supporting farm maintenance including fencing, pathways, and infrastructure.
* Assisting with seasonal growing projects and the upkeep of the walled garden.
* Helping maintain habitats, paddocks, and enclosures.
* Ensuring the farm is safe, clean, and well-maintained.
* Promoting the ethos of sustainability, belonging, compassion, and ambition across all farm activities.
* Positively representing the farm during community events or open days.
About You
* Experience and genuine interest in animal care and horticulture.
* Proven experience in basic maintenance and DIY tasks.
* Confidence working outdoors across all seasons and conditions.
* A hands-on, resilient, and proactive approach with the ability to work independently and responsibly.
* A valid driving licence (essential due to rural location).
About The Dorset Centre Of Excellence
The Dorset Centre of Excellence is located at the eastern edge of Shaftesbury, enjoying a secluded setting within its grounds (55 acres).
Coombe House School located at the Dorset Centre of Excellence meets the needs of children and young people with social communication, social-emotional and learning needs, and all are supported by an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Salary: c£20,250 – 20,750 per annum (for 28 hours per week).
Hours: 28 hours per week (Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Job share considered (14 hours per week: one weekday and one weekend day).
Contract: Permanent, all-year.
What The Dorset Centre Of Excellence Can Offer You
* Competitive salary.
* 31 days annual leave (pro-rated for part-time).
* NEST Pension (10% employers’ contribution).
* Death in Service (3 x salary).
* Health Care Plan after probation period - claim back costs towards dental check-ups, eye tests, prescription charges and therapies.
* A workplace set in beautiful surroundings.
* Access to an employee assistance programme.
* Use of the gym and swimming pool (at specified times).
* Continuous professional development and training.
* Wellbeing support, including qualified Mental Health First Aiders on staff.
* The opportunity to shape a growing farm and educational offer.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 14 September 2025. Note: We may close the post earlier if sufficient suitable applications are received.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and expect everyone who works in our school (and visitors to our school) to share this commitment. We take safeguarding and welfare concerns seriously and encourage our pupils to talk to us about any worries they may have. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS.
Job details
* Seniority level: Entry level
* Employment type: Part-time
* Job function: Management and Manufacturing
* Industries: Book and Periodical Publishing
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