Job Description
School Caretaker
St Peter & St Paul School, Hady Hill, Chesterfield
Salary: Generous + pension scheme + lunch during term time
Hours: Full Time (37.5–40 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent
Probationary Period: First six months
Apprenticeship applicants will be considered or sponsorship made
Start date: September 2025
Key Purpose of the Role
To ensure the safety and security of all pupils, staff, and visitors by maintaining a clean, safe, and fully operational school environment.
Key Requirements
A "hands-on", organised, and proactive team player with a practical approach to problem solving.
About the Role
As School Caretaker, you will work closely with the Maintenance Manager to ensure the school site is safe, clean, and welcoming at all times. You will take responsibility for day-to-day maintenance, carry out minor repairs, and liaise with contractors to maintain high standards across the site—always prioritising safety.
Working under the direction of the Maintenance Manager, your responsibilities will include:
* Ensuring the site is safe, secure, and fully functional each day.
* Carrying out agreed minor and major repairs and maintenance.
* Supporting and supervising contractors while on site.
* Assisting the Maintenance Manager with health and safety compliance, including risk assessments and accurate record keeping.
* Driving the school minibus to venues such as swimming lessons and fixtures.
* Maintaining high standards of accuracy in all aspects of the role.
Working Pattern
* Shift times will vary between 07:15 and 18:15, depending on school requirements but no more than 40 hours per week.
* Flexibility is required to support occasional evening or weekend lettings and school events.
What We Are Looking For
Essential Criteria
You will need to demonstrate:
* Enthusiasm, motivation, and professionalism, with a strong eye for detail.
* Excellent communication skills and a collaborative team approach.
* Previous experience in facilities management or a trade (plumbing, electrical, carpentry) in a commercial environment.
* Physical capability to walk, bend, push, pull, and lift throughout the working day.
* Confidence in handling maintenance equipment.
* Strong organisational and time-management skills.
* Self-motivation and the ability to work independently without close supervision.
* Sound knowledge of health and safety procedures and statutory compliance.
* Ability to lead on day-to-day site tasks and minor repairs.
* A calm, practical, and proactive approach under pressure.
* Commitment to maintaining a high-quality learning environment.
* An ability and willingness to drive the school minibus.
Desirable Criteria
It would also be an advantage if you:
* Hold a relevant qualification in a trade or facilities management.
* Have previous experience working in a school or educational setting.
* Are familiar with statutory compliance systems and reporting.
* Bring additional practical skills (e.g., painting, decorating, gardening).
Apprenticeship sponsorship for the right candidate will be considered.
We Can Offer
* A competitive employment package.
* Westfield Health membership.
* A thorough and supportive staff training programme.
If you believe you have the right skills, dedication, and passion for this role, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Closing date: 09 September 2025
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact the school office to arrange an appointment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,420.00-£25,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Free parking
* Life insurance
* Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Chesterfield S41 0EF: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
* Ideal candidate for this role would have experience but we are open to training the right candidate on an apprentice program.
Experience:
* Caretaker: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
* English (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 09/09/2025
Reference ID: Care/09/09/2025