JOB DESCRIPTION

MAINTENANCE STAFF

Job Title: Caretaker & Maintenance Person
Reports to: Headteacher / Premises Manager
Location: South Croydon and Surroundings

Job Purpose

The Caretaker / Maintenance Person will play a key role in ensuring that the school
and associated charity shops are safe, secure, and well maintained. The post-holder
will be responsible for the upkeep of buildings, grounds, vehicles, and facilities
across both settings. This includes carrying out a wide range of maintenance,
compliance, and security duties to support the smooth running of daily operations
and to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for pupils, staff, volunteers, customers,
and visitors.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

School Transport

  Transport school buses to and from the garage as required (shared

responsibility).

  Carry out routine vehicle checks, including oil, water, fuel, and clamping

equipment.

  Maintain the cleanliness and presentation of the school buses.

Grounds and Gardens (School)

  Undertake grass cutting, weeding, pruning, and low-level tree trimming.
  Water plants and maintain outdoor water features.
  Pressure wash paths and keep external areas clear of debris.
  Carry out repairs to fencing and other outdoor structures.
  Clear leaves from paths and roofs to prevent hazards.
  Apply salt and grit to paths during winter to ensure safety.

Building Maintenance (School and Charity Shops)

  Ensure gutters and drains are kept clear and functional.

  Undertake painting, decorating, and general repair work.
  Complete minor plumbing repairs and maintenance.
  Collect maintenance materials from local suppliers when required.
  Assist with small refurbishment projects and site improvements.

Facilities and Compliance (School)

  Assist with the Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) of school equipment.
  Deliver and collect equipment to and from student homes when required.
  Unlock the school in the mornings and secure the premises at the end of the

day.

  Conduct weekly fire alarm tests and monthly emergency lighting checks.
  Carry out monthly checks of water temperatures in line with compliance

requirements.

  Assist with setting up facilities, including erecting the marquee as required.
  Ensure school toilets are appropriately stocked with consumables.
  Undertake quarterly descaling of shower heads, hoses, and kettles.

Swimming Pool Maintenance (School)

  Test and record water chemical levels daily (Monday to Friday) to meet

required standards.

  Clean the pool and surrounding areas to ensure a safe and hygienic

environment.

  Carry out routine pool maintenance tasks, including weekly backwashing of

filters.

Charity Shops

  Carry out minor repairs, decorating, and maintenance to ensure shops remain

safe, functional, and presentable.

  Assist with PAT testing of all electrical items
  Support shop staff and volunteers with practical facilities tasks when required.
  Respond to any maintenance or compliance issues promptly.

Person Specification

Essential

  Proven experience in caretaking, maintenance, or a similar role.
  Competence in a wide range of practical skills, including basic plumbing,

painting, and general repairs.

  Ability to carry out groundskeeping and gardening tasks.
  Understanding of health and safety requirements in both school and retail

environments.

  Good organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.

  Reliability, flexibility, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a

team.

  Ability to use hand tools and electrical power tools safely and effectively.
  Able to work independently, managing own schedule and using initiative.
  Strong communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with

staff, students, and contractors, demonstrating a cooperative and
approachable attitude.

  Calm under pressure, with confidence in responding to emergencies.
  Confident working at height and capable of manual handling and heavy lifting

(training provided).

  Conscientious and reliable, taking pride in the quality of work delivered.
  Knowledge of basic health and safety requirements.
  Full, clean UK driving licence.
  Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Desirable

  Previous experience working in a school or educational environment.
  Previous experience supporting retail/charity shop operations.
  Knowledge of pool maintenance procedures.
  PAT testing experience (training may be provided).