Estates Operative

Location: Ingfield Manor School
Reporting to: Premises Lead

Help Create a Safe, Welcoming Environment for Young People to Thrive

Ingfield Manor School is seeking a reliable, practical, and proactive Estates Operative to join our dedicated Estates team.

This is a varied and hands-on role that plays a vital part in maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for our students, staff, and visitors. From site maintenance and groundskeeping to vehicle checks and health and safety compliance, you'll help ensure our school remains a well-maintained and enjoyable place for everyone.

If you enjoy practical work, take pride in maintaining high standards, and are looking for a rewarding role in a specialist educational environment, we'd love to hear from you.

About the Role

As an Estates Operative, you will support the day-to-day maintenance, security, and presentation of the school site and grounds.

Working as part of the Estates team, you will undertake a wide range of maintenance and operational duties that contribute to the smooth running of the school while ensuring a safe environment for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

Premises Maintenance

• Carry out general maintenance, minor repairs, and decorating tasks across the school site.
• Monitor the condition of buildings, fixtures, fittings, and furniture.
• Maintain tools and equipment in good working order.
• Report defects, maintenance issues, and safety concerns promptly.

Grounds Maintenance

• Assist with maintaining school grounds, including:
  • Grass cutting and mowing
  • Strimming
  • Weeding
  • General upkeep of outdoor spaces
• Keep external areas clean, tidy, and free from litter.
• Support snow and ice clearance during adverse weather to ensure safe access across the site.

Security & Site Safety

• Assist with opening and securing school buildings.
• Carry out routine security checks on doors, gates, windows, and alarms.
• Patrol the school grounds and report any concerns.
• Support the safe movement of students and visitors, particularly during drop-off and collection times.

Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and school procedures.
• Complete and maintain records relating to compliance checks and maintenance activities.
• Report hazards, incidents, and health and safety concerns promptly.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe environment for all site users.

Swimming Pool Maintenance

• Support the safe operation and maintenance of the school swimming pool.
• Carry out routine water quality testing, including pH and chlorine monitoring.
• Maintain cleanliness within the pool area.
• Report maintenance issues or safety concerns as they arise.

Vehicle Maintenance & Driving Duties

• Conduct routine vehicle inspections, including checks on:
  • Oil levels
  • Tyres
  • Lights
  • General condition
• Ensure vehicles remain clean, roadworthy, and compliant.
• Arrange servicing, MOTs, and repairs as required.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and vehicle usage records.
• Drive school vehicles when required to transport staff, students, or equipment.

Cleaning & Waste Management

• Support cleaning activities across the site when required.
• Ensure waste is disposed of appropriately and recycling procedures are followed.
• Carry out ad-hoc cleaning duties, including windows and external surfaces as needed.

Deliveries & Porterage

• Receive, store, and distribute deliveries across the school.
• Assist with setting up rooms and moving furniture or equipment for events and activities.
• Support departments by ensuring resources are delivered efficiently and safely.

About You

We are looking for a practical and dependable individual who takes pride in maintaining high standards and enjoys working in a team environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Basic DIY and maintenance skills.
• Good communication and organisational abilities.
• Physically fit and capable of undertaking manual handling activities.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Understanding of basic health and safety principles.
• Reliable, punctual, and flexible approach to work.
• Full UK driving licence with the ability to drive cars and minibuses.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• D1 licence or willingness to obtain one.
• Previous experience in a maintenance, caretaking, estates, or facilities role.
• Relevant qualifications or training such as:
  • Manual Handling
  • COSHH
  • First Aid
  • Health & Safety
• Knowledge of GDPR and data protection requirements.

Personal Qualities

• Positive, proactive, and solution-focused.
• Able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Flexible and willing to undertake a varied workload.
• Professional and approachable.
• A positive role model for young people.
• Non-judgemental and committed to inclusion.