Caretaker | Southwark

The Opportunity

Southwark is a borough that bridges the historic heart of London with some of the city’s most modern educational developments. We are seeking a reliable, skilled, and proactive Caretaker to join a busy premises team. In this role, you are the custodian of the school environment, ensuring that the buildings and grounds are safe, secure, and maintained to the highest standards for pupils, staff, and the local community.

The Role & Department

• You will work as part of the Site Management team, reporting to the School Business Manager or Premises Manager.

• The role is hands-on and varied, covering everything from minor plumbing and carpentry to the oversight of health and safety compliance.

• You will be responsible for the "first impression" of the school, ensuring the site is clean, welcoming, and functional every day.

• This position often involves a split-shift pattern (e.g., early morning opening and late afternoon closing) or a rotating shift to cover school events and lettings.

Core Responsibilities

1. Site Security: Managing the opening and closing of the school gates and buildings, including the setting of intruder alarms and responding to emergency call-outs.

2. General Maintenance: Carrying out essential repairs, including minor plumbing, painting, decorating, and basic joinery to keep the facility in top condition.

3. Health & Safety: Conducting and recording regular safety checks, including fire alarm testing, emergency lighting, water temperature monitoring (Legionella), and playground equipment inspections.

4. Contractor Liaison: Supervising external contractors (e.g., electricians, boiler engineers) during site visits, ensuring they adhere to school safeguarding and safety protocols.

5. Grounds & Porterage: Ensuring the grounds are free of litter and hazards, managing deliveries, and moving furniture or equipment to set up for assemblies, exams, and school events.

The Successful Candidate We are looking for a "can-do" individual who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a school community. Requirements include:

• Experience: Previous experience in caretaking, site maintenance, or a trade (such as plumbing or carpentry) is highly desirable.

• Problem Solving: The ability to identify maintenance issues early and find practical, cost-effective solutions.

• Reliability: A punctual and trustworthy nature, with the physical fitness required to manage a large site and handle heavy lifting.

• Communication: A friendly and professional manner when interacting with pupils, teachers, and external visitors.

Why Join Us?

• A stable and vital role within a supportive school environment that values the contribution of every staff member.

• Access to training in specialist areas such as Health & Safety, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), and manual handling.

• The opportunity to work in one of London’s most dynamic boroughs, with excellent transport links across the capital.

• A sense of purpose in maintaining a space where children can learn and grow in a safe, well-kept environment.

How to Apply

Please submit your current CV to begin the application process for this Caretaker position.