Grounds Person

Salary: Competitive. Job type: Full Time, Permanent. Start date: ASAP. Apply by:  28 July 2025.

Job overview

We are seeking a committed, and passionate Grounds Person with knowledge of machinery and sports pitch maintenance to join us at Forest.

This is a full-time permanent position, supporting the maintenance and development of amenities and playing surfaces, ensuring safe consistent playing surfaces are available for use as necessary.

Why work at Forest?

There are many benefits of working at Forest school as staff are our single most important asset. Key benefits include:   

• Generous CPD budget
• Comprehensive Professional Development Review system
• Opportunities to contribute to the wider community via our extensive Outreach Programme
• Free hot lunch (takeaway sandwich lunch also available) and refreshments throughout the day
• 20% fee remission (pro-rata for part time staff) for children attending Forest which is applicable Y3-Y13
• Subsidised membership to the Sylvestrian Leisure Centre
• Membership of the School's Group Life Assurance scheme and Personal Accident
• Contribution towards private medical insurance fees
• Membership of a pension scheme

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, so early applications are encouraged. Forest School reserves the right to make appointments at any stage.

Please note that if you have previously applied for this position and were not successful, your application will only be reconsidered if there have been significant changes to your qualifications, or skills that align more closely with the person specification.

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

Essential:

• Full Driving Licence
• A pro-active work ethic that centres on pride in achieving the best possible results
• Excellent timekeeping
• Verifiable experience in sports grounds maintenance and associated work
• Ability to use a range of machinery and equipment
• Experience in initial setting out and marking pitches
• Knowledge and practical application of the Health & Safety at Work Act
• Competency and experience to handle chemicals or fuels and the safe operation of various types of machinery and plant.
• Flexible approach to variable circumstances

Desirable:

• Experience of working in an independent school
• Relevant qualifications in horticulture
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Sports Turf Management (or equivalent)
• Level 2 Groundsman qualification (or equivalent)
• Holder of valid PA1 and PA6 certificates
• Good understanding of IT

View the Job Description here

SAFEGUARDING

Forest School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The postholder will be required to:

• Complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS).
• Complete Child Protection Training.

Promote and safeguard the welfare of all children and young persons they are responsible for, or with whom they come into contact.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. We are an equal opportunities employer.