Centre Assistant

About the Role

Cardfields Environment Centre is seeking a Centre Assistant to work in our residential centre in Chelmsford, Essex. The role supports the running of a busy centre that welcomes schools, community groups and private hires.

Working hours:

20‑hour post. Monday‑Friday term‑time only (5 hours Mon, 4.5 hours Tue, 4.5 hours Thu, 6 hours Fri). One weekend in four may be required.

• Work quickly and effectively to meet tight deadlines, carrying out cleaning duties such as making beds, vacuuming and laundry to maintain health and safety standards.
• Work independently and use initiative, supporting the catering team and carrying out associated tasks such as cleaning and clearing surfaces.
• Cover breakfast and lunch duties.
• Maintain flexibility across all areas of the centre.
• Be polite and welcoming to provide outstanding customer service.

• Be able to work quickly and effectively to tight deadlines.
• Work without supervision and use initiative.
• Cover breakfast and lunch duties.
• Be flexible within all areas of the centre.
• Be willing to complete Child Protection training.
• Be willing to complete a Food Hygiene qualification.
• Have an outgoing, polite and welcoming attitude.

• Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
• A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
• Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
• Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
• Excellent local government pension scheme.
• Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more.

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel they belong and can safely express their thoughts, ideas and challenges, without fear of judgement or discrimination.

We maintain a zero‑tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, including but not limited to race, disability, sexual orientation, sex, religion and belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity. Any incidents of discrimination will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all colleagues.

We use data to identify and address disparities, ensuring that our policies and practices are transparent and impactful in promoting a diverse representation of backgrounds and perspectives at all levels of the organisation. We are committed to continuous improvement in diversity and inclusion, listening to our colleagues and learning where we can further advance these principles.

• Proof of address
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational Health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020, and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with children barred list, qualifications check and 3/5 years referencing.

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria, and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.