Groundsperson

King Edward's School and King Edward VI High School for Girls are looking for an experienced Groundsperson to join the Grounds team working across all parts of the site, together with a Deputy Head Groundsman (with responsibility for Eastern Road playing fields) and a Head Groundsman with overall responsibility for the whole site. 

Key duties

To complete work on the grounds as directed by the Head Groundsman; this could include:

▪       Preparation and maintenance of a variety of sports pitches and surfaces to a high standard, including mowing, marking out, aeration and renovation practices

▪       Preparation and upkeep of lawns and decorative areas – mowing, strimming, pruning and weeding

▪       Removal of litter, leaves and rubbish in certain defined areas

▪       Operation and maintenance of various types of machinery and equipment

▪       In icy/snowy weather, ensuring that footpaths, steps and parking areas are safe for pupils, staff and parents to access – this may require early morning work to salt, grit and clear snow and ice before the beginning of the school day

▪       Unlocking and locking of ground and facilities

▪       Awareness of Health & Safety requirements

▪       Undertake other reasonable duties related to the job purpose required from time to time

Person specification

Candidates must have demonstrable experience of working as a Groundsperson (in any setting; school experience is desirable but not essential).  The successful individual will have basic labouring, and some general grounds and maintenance skills, although relevant sports turf or chemical licence qualifications would be advantageous.

This is a physical role so you must be reasonably fit and able to cope with using heavy machinery, lifting, carrying and working outdoors in all weather conditions.  The post holder will be enthusiastic, hardworking, with high standards, good attention to detail and be able to work under their own initiative.

Candidates must also possess good teamwork, organisation and communication skills and be comfortable liaising with staff, pupils, parents, contractors and other third-party users of the School’s facilities.  The successful individual must also possess a clean, valid driving licence, as there is the requirement to drive tractors and school vehicles to deliver your duties.

A flexible approach is needed to working hours. As well as some requirement to work early mornings and evenings, team members may be required to work paid overtime on Saturdays during the Summer term to prepare wickets prior to school cricket matches. 

Terms and Conditions

Salary:                 Grade 3 (£24,182 - £26,583 per annum, depending on skills and experience) plus a role-related allowance of £748 per annum

Hours:                 37 hours per week

Reporting to:    Head Groundsman

Benefits:             22 days annual leave per annum, rising to 25 days after completion of 5 years’ service (plus 8 statutory bank holidays and 4 concessionary days)

Enrolment in Defined Contribution pension scheme

Free hot lunch during term time

Use of swimming pool and gym facilities

Start date:          As soon as possible