Purpose of the Job:
To assist in the maintenance and security of the school premises and site, ensuring a safe working environment. Support the Headteacher and Area Business Manager in managing school property and premises. Undertake caretaking duties, supervise cleaning activities and staff, and ensure the security of the school premises. Assist in maintaining plant and equipment, as well as the internal and external fabric of the premises.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Security Management:
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Ensure the security of buildings, site, and resources.
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Act as a designated key holder, providing out-of-hours and emergency access following initial assessment by a contracted 1st response key holder service.
Proactive Task Management:
- Identify and address tasks noticed during the course of other works around the site, in liaison with the Area Business Manager (Finance and Premises).
Risk Assessments:
- Write and carry out risk assessments in line with Trust policy.
- Monitor and maintain relevant risk assessments in school in accordance with HSE regulations and Trust policy.
- Fire Safety:
- Act as Fire Warden, managing responsibilities for fire and evacuation in compliance with HSE regulations.
- Repairs and Maintenance:
- Carry out first-line repairs and maintenance, including decoration, within the scope of competence.
- Health & Safety Checks:
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Undertake and document regular health & safety and other routine checks.
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Record necessary follow-up actions after checks and inspections.
- Cleaning Services:
- Review and provide feedback on the completion of cleaning services contracted by the school.
- Contractor Management:
- Supervise contractors on-site, ensuring work meets the required standard and coordinating projects as needed.
- Systems Management:
- Operate and manage systems including heating, cooling, lighting, security (including CCTV), and fire safety.
- Caretaking Duties:
- Perform caretaking roles during term time, including porterage, emergency cleaning, internal event preparation, and external grounds maintenance.
- Event Support:
- Work additional hours as necessary for school events (such as open evenings, parent evenings, plays, and events) with applicable overtime rates.
- General Duties:
- Undertake any other duties or responsibilities relevant to the role and appropriate to the grade of the appointment.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Periodic Cleaning: Clean designated areas of the school building and grounds as instructed.
- Specialized Equipment Maintenance: Assist with maintaining specialized equipment after training.
- Lettings Management: Undertake lettings and associated tasks, in line with local agreements.
- First Aid: Provide first aid responsibilities after completion of 1st Aid Training.
Flexibility and Initiative:
Duties, responsibilities, and accountabilities may vary over time at the discretion of the Academy. The post holder will primarily work on their own initiative within the framework of the job description, in conjunction with input from the Area Business Manager or Headteacher regarding school needs.
Physical Requirements:
- Move and carry furniture and equipment (e.g., desks, tables, chairs, DIY equipment such as ladders) to relevant locations as necessary.
- Working hours during school closures and holidays will vary based on the need for access and mutual agreement with the Headteacher and Area Business Manager.
Qualifications:
- Level 1 or 2 Diploma (or equivalent) with relevant practical and technical skills.
- Enhanced DBS check required (or to be completed prior to employment).
- IOSH Managing Safety Diploma or equivalent.
Experience:
- Demonstrable relevant experience at a responsible level.
- Understanding and commitment to child welfare and safety.
Skills and Abilities:
- Use of a range of basic tools and machinery (e.g., lawn mowers, kitchen equipment, cleaning equipment).
- Day-to-day operational maintenance of plant and equipment.
- Ability to assess and undertake minor maintenance and repairs.
- Competence in communicating information and liaising with external contractors.
- Proficiency in using information technology (e.g., email, Office applications).
Knowledge:
- Knowledge of policies and procedures related to school security, minor maintenance, and repairs.
- Understanding and application of Health and Safety procedures (e.g., manual handling, safe use of machinery, COSHH, First Aid, Hygiene Practice, lone working procedures).
- Ability to recognise and calmly deal with emergency situations.
- Willingness to undertake training to keep knowledge up-to-date.
Connect2Staff/Connect2Kent, part of Commercial Services Trading/Kent Ltd, is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business and positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.