ASSISTANT GARDENER

A Co-Educational Independent Day School for Students aged 11-18

ASSISTANT GARDENER
Full-time

We  are  seeking  a  dedicated  and  enthusiastic  Assistant  Gardener  to  join  our  highly  motivated  Grounds
department.

In this role, you will focus mainly on the day-to-day maintenance and creation of the School’s formal gardens
and amenity areas. In the spirit of effective team working, you may occasionally be called upon to assist in
maintaining the grass sports fields and woodland areas. This position offers an exciting opportunity for an
individual with a passion for gardening and commitment to excellence.

This is a full time role with annualised working hours to allow for autumn, winter and summer daylight working
hours with a 30 minute unpaid daily break: Autumn (September to October 40 hours per week) 07:30 to
16:00;  Winter  (November  to  March  37.5  hours  per  week)  08:00  to  16:00;  Summer  (April  to  August  42.5
hours per week) 07:30 to 16:30. In addition, some Saturday working is required (usually on a one weekend
in three rota during the summer term) for which overtime payment or time off in lieu is provided.

About You
The ideal candidate will have 1-2 years gardening experience with excellent plant knowledge, be able to
prioritise own workload, be reliable and able to work independently or as part of a team and have a flexible
and  enthusiastic  approach.  Practical  experience  is  valued  and  a  lack  of  formal  qualifications  will  not
necessarily preclude an experienced candidate.

Our School
Founded in 1646, Reading Blue Coat is a leading independent day school of circa 800 pupils from ages 11
to 18. The School is located on a beautiful 46-acre campus in the village of Sonning, just outside Reading.

The  School  employs more than 200 staff, of whom  50% are academic staff, and provides  a stimulating,
friendly and supportive atmosphere in which each pupil can realise his or her full intellectual, physical, and
creative potential.

What we offer
Reading Blue Coat offers an exceptional working environment and an attractive rewards package, including
excellent  benefits  such  as  a  pension  scheme;  free  meals;  extensive  staff  discounts;  life  assurance,  tax
saving  cycle  to  work  and  car  leasing  schemes;  free  sports  and  leisure  facilities;  Employee  Assistance
Programme; and a strong commitment to professional development.

Further details and an application form can be downloaded from our website:  www.rbcs.org.uk/vacancies
or contact the HR department, Tel: 0118 933 5813 email: recruitment@rbcs.org.uk

Closing date: 09:00 on Friday 30 January 2026

Applications must be submitted to the email address above by application form (which can be found on
our website) and accompanied by your covering letter. Applicants must already be eligible to work in the
UK.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and
volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers and the Disclosure and
Barring Service enhanced check. Registered charity number 1087839  www.rbcs.org.uk

The Headmaster & School are in membership of HMC, SHMIS and AGBIS. Registered Charity No 1087839. Registered in England & Wales as a company limited by guarantee No 4243510 Registered Office as above.