Job Description – School Caretaker
Location: Reading
Contract: Full-time
Salary: £16 - £21.50 an hour
Start Date: As soon as possible
About Us
Blessed Hugh Faringdon Catholic School is a successful and inclusive secondary school in Reading, committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where students can thrive. We are seeking a reliable and proactive School Caretaker to join our site team and help maintain the highest standards of safety, security, and cleanliness across the school.
Key Responsibilities
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Site Security & Access
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Open and lock the school premises each day, ensuring all buildings are safe and secure.
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Act as a keyholder, responding to out-of-hours alarms when required.
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Maintenance & Repairs
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Carry out general maintenance and minor repairs (plumbing, carpentry, painting, decorating).
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Ensure all heating, lighting, and alarm systems are functioning correctly.
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Support larger refurbishment or improvement projects and liaise with external contractors.
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Health & Safety
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Conduct regular site inspections, reporting and addressing any hazards.
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Carry out weekly fire alarm checks, emergency lighting tests, and risk assessments.
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Ensure compliance with health and safety, safeguarding, asbestos, and legionella procedures.
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Facilities Management
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Maintain school grounds, including litter picking, grass cutting, and snow/grit clearance when necessary.
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Monitor stock levels of cleaning, maintenance, and site supplies; place orders as required.
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Manage waste disposal and recycling.
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Support for the School Community
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Set up rooms and halls for lessons, meetings, exams, and school events.
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Provide support to staff and students as required, maintaining a welcoming environment.
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Supervise and liaise with cleaning staff and contractors to ensure high standards of upkeep.
Person Specification
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Proven experience in caretaking, site management, or building maintenance (school or similar environment desirable).
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Strong practical skills in general repairs and maintenance.
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Good knowledge of health and safety regulations.
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Ability to prioritise workload, use initiative, and work independently.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a professional approach when working with staff, pupils, and visitors.
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Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain).
What We Offer
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A supportive and welcoming school community.
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Opportunities for training and professional development.
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The chance to play a key role in maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for young people