Head Groundsman

(Qualification and experience in sports groundskeeping is essential)

Required for 16th February 2026

8.00am-6.00pm, Monday – Friday, 52 weeks

£35,000 to £40,000 per annum, dependent upon experience

St John’s is an independent Prep School for boys aged 3–13. We are seeking a skilled, reliable and proactive Head Groundsman to lead the maintenance, safety and presentation of our extensive school grounds. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership for leading the team to continually improve the presentation of the site and to ensure the boys are able to use the grounds to their fullest potential.

You will lead a team of 2 grounds assistants to take responsibility for ensuring that all outdoor areas, including sports pitches, gardens, lawns, play areas and pathways, are maintained to a high standard throughout the year. Duties will include grounds maintenance, horticultural work, seasonal planning, pitch preparation and marking, machinery operation and upkeep, and supporting the wider Estates Team with school events and operational needs. Experience in sports groundskeeping is essential, along with relevant qualifications. Current chainsaw qualification, ability and willingness to drive the School minibuses and experience leading a team would be desirable.

This is a full-time, permanent, year-round role (52 weeks). Salary is £35,000 to £40,000, dependent upon experience. The package includes 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, on-site parking and a generous employer pension contribution. Subsidised on-site accommodation is available. The hours of work are from 8.00am to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday.

Please contact Headmaster’s EA on 020 8866 0067 if you would like further information.

Applications should reach the School no later than 9am on Friday 9 th January 2026.

Interviews will take place on Tuesday 13 th January 2026.

To Apply

Please apply in confidence by sending a completed application form, equal opportunities form and a covering letter to headsea@st-johns.org.uk.  Please note CVs without an accompanying application form will not be accepted.

Candidates selected to come to the School for an interview will have further information sent through once selection has taken place.

Further information or additional details are available upon request.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced check for Regulated Activity from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Please refer to the Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and the Safer Recruitment Policy available via the St John’s policy viewer.