Gardener jobs in West Kingsdown

Salary: Band 5 £29,991 - £32,671pa actual

Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks (06:00 – 14:00, Monday - Friday)

Closing Date: 18 October 2026

Starting Date: ASAP

Our client, a reputable SEMH school in Sevenoaks, is currently looking for a Grounds Maintenance and Premises Assistant to support the school with both the grounds keeping and daily maintenance tasks.

The successful candidate would be a dual-skilled professional within the Estates and Facilities team. This specialist role provides essential day-to-day grounds and premises maintenance and upkeep, to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the school site.

Due to the nature of the role the ideal applicant must have previous experience in grounds care, general maintenance and landscaping. The post holder must be sympathetic to both the educational and practical requirements of a school setting, working to tight deadlines under sometimes demanding conditions. The ideal applicant will hold a formal qualification and/or machinery training.

Responsibilities

• Perform landscape maintenance tasks including mowing, pruning, planting, weeding, and turf care to keep grounds healthy and attractive.
• Operate various power tools such as lawnmowers, trimmers, hedge cutters, and other gardening equipment safely and efficiently.
• Use hand tools for planting, digging, pruning, and minor repairs around the premises.
• Maintain irrigation systems by inspecting for leaks or blockages and making necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Assist with general building and ground repairs using mechanical knowledge and construction experience to ensure premises are safe and functional.
• Support groundskeeping activities by cleaning outdoor areas, removing debris, and ensuring pathways are clear.
• Operate heavy machinery such as excavators when required for landscaping or construction projects under supervision.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of landscape maintenance techniques including horticulture principles and groundskeeping best practices.
• Mechanical aptitude with experience in maintaining power tools, hand tools, irrigation systems, and basic construction equipment.
• Ability to operate machinery such as excavators safely and effectively.
• Experience with gardening tasks like planting, pruning, fertilizing, and pest control.
• Familiarity with construction-related activities including minor repairs and equipment handling.
• Good physical stamina with the ability to perform outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Excellent attention to detail combined with a proactive approach to maintenance tasks.

If you would like to be part of the journey helping our students gain their best outcomes, we can support you by offering:

• Free lunches during the term
• Generous Company Pension scheme
• Employee Assistant Programme
• Charity Discount Scheme
• Summer and Christmas Social events
• Free onsite parking
• Swimming pool
• Excellent training opportunities both internal and external

This role is perfect for individuals passionate about outdoor environments who want to contribute to creating a safe and inviting space while developing their skills in grounds maintenance and premises management. Join us to help maintain a beautiful environment that supports our community’s well-being!

Working in a school involves close and unsupervised contact with vulnerable groups including children and as such is a regulated activity. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding screening appropriate to the post (including an Enhanced DBS check. Management positions will require a 128 Check.)

Pay: £29,991.00-£32,671.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Gym membership
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person