Head Groundsperson

Summary

Join a dynamic and welcoming school community as Head Groundsperson, leading the maintenance and enhancement of beautiful grounds and sports facilities. This varied, hands-on role offers the opportunity to shape outdoor spaces, lead a dedicated team, promote high safety standards, and take pride in creating an inspiring environment for all

Detail

Required July 2026, full time.

Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based near Thatcham, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and co-curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women prepared to take on the world.

Job purpose

We are looking to appoint a skilled Head Groundsperson to ensure that the school landscape and manicured areas look attractive, welcoming and well-kept at all times.

As Head Groundsperson you will guide the Grounds Team and interact with other line managers, working collaboratively with colleagues as part of a professional team. Duties include maintaining, conserving and enhancing the prestigious grounds and sports facilities as directed by the Head of Maintenance and Facilities. You will demonstrate an understanding of health and safety and actively promote a positive culture towards it throughout your role.

This is a practical role which will involve outside work on the grounds, safe operation and adjustment to a wide range of equipment and use of machinery and equipment and delegating work to a small team or to contractors on occasions.

Benefits Include

• Generous pension scheme - 9% employer contribution
• Delicious free meals while on duty
• Life insurance and critical illness cover
• Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
• A supportive induction programme
• Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location

Applications will be processed as they are received and interviews may take place before the closing date, so early application is recommended.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK – we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks.

At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.

Documents

• HEAD GROUNDSPERSON CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK-compressed PDF Document