Caretaker, Building Maintenance

We are seeking to appoint a capable and efficient Caretaker at Wimbledon Common Preparatory School (WCPS) to support the school with its daily operations, working 25 hours per week for 34.4 weeks per year, with a start date as soon as possible.

On a daily basis, the Caretaker will be required to:

• Carry out daily site inspections and complete the daily job check sheet

• Ensure that the Astroturf and staff car park are clear of leaves and litter

• Ensure that the outdoor classroom is clean and clear of leaves and dirt

• Check and remove any wildlife excrement on the premises, jet washing parts of the playground, particularly under tree-lined areas

• Check bins and ensure that any overflow or spillages have been cleared

• Patrol the road during drop-offs and pick-ups

• Unlock the side gate before early morning clubs begin, ensuring that there is a Sports Coach present

• Carry fruit and sandwiches to the staffroom, and remove boxes after the staff have unloaded the contents

• Move empty insulated lunch storage boxes to the car park before the incoming delivery of lunches each day

• Prepare the hall for lunch by putting out tables and transport in the incoming lunches (trolley provided). From time to time, lunches may need to be delivered to classrooms if the hall is in use for other events

• Set up hall benches each morning for assembly

• Feed the fish and water indoor plants, particularly during the holidays

On a weekly basis, the Caretaker will be required to:

• Clean around the building and Orchard Hall, paying particular attention to sweeping the perimeter of each building

• Clear gutters and drains when needed

• Water and weed gardens, paying particular attention to the plant pots in the summer

• Change lightbulbs in lamps and batteries in clocks when needed (changing clock times when required)

On an ad-hoc basis, the Caretaker will be required to:

• Assist with setting up Open mornings, putting up banners, setting out chairs and tables where needed

• Setting up Orchard Hall for school workshops and other events

• Setting up and taking down equipment such as the performers' platform in Orchard Hall for events such as class assemblies, Year 2 rehearsals, graduation, Christmas rehearsals and other performances

• Support, set up and take down Sports day – being available to assist with Sports day equipment with a van.

• Put up gazebos during the summer months for shade

• Set up for Parents’ evening, including chairs from the hall being placed in the corridors

• Assist with setting up and carrying items for weekly coffee mornings

• Carry furniture and other heavy items as required

• Assemble new ordered furniture

• Jet wash the outdoor patio area

• Escort visitors, contractors and guests as required

• Assisting the Friends of Squirrels (FOS) with moving items to and from the basement

• Assist FOS with set up and take down school fairs, remaining present during the fairs (overtime may be accrued)

• Assist FOS with set up and take down of bake sales and school uniform sales

Person Specification

The successful candidate will have:

• Previous experience working in a school, college, or similar educational setting is desired but not essential

• Relevant maintenance or trade qualification (e.g. City & Guilds, NVQ in Building Maintenance, Electrical or Plumbing)

• Knowledge of fire safety procedures and compliance requirements

• First Aid qualification or willingness to undertake training

• Ability to work well as part of a team

• A flexible and enthusiastic approach to work

• Ability to work without supervision and prioritise workload

Wimbledon Common Prep School (WCPS) is a pre-preparatory school for 175 boys aged 4-7 years. We provide a well-structured education that aims to instil a love of learning in a friendly, welcoming and attractive environment.

The School was founded in 1919 as a preparatory school for King’s College School (KCS) and other public schools. The premises were originally in Wimbledon High Street but in 1957, the then-owner acquired the current building on the Ridgway, opposite King’s, where the school is now situated in a lovely building with a large playground area surrounded…