This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who takes pride in creating inspiring outdoor spaces where children can learn, explore and thrive. The role offers the opportunity to work within a well-maintained and supportive school environment where high standards of presentation are valued.

The role includes general garden maintenance such as lawn care, pruning, deadheading, trimming, shrub maintenance, planting, weeding and mulching beds and borders in accordance with good horticultural practice. The role also involves contributing to garden development and design using appropriate tools and machinery.

In addition to horticultural work, the gardener plays an important role within the wider Estates team.  The role also includes assisting with general grounds upkeep such as maintaining the appearance of paths and driveways, seasonal clearance work, and supporting colleagues in the maintenance and grounds teams with larger outdoor projects.

This variety makes the role well suited to someone who enjoys practical work and contributing to the overall presentation and upkeep of a busy school site.

The successful candidate will have:

1. Proven practical gardening / horticultural experience and sound plant knowledge.
2. A recognised horticultural qualification and PA1 / PA6 spraying certificates (or willingness to obtain).
3. A full clean driving licence.
4. Experience operating and maintaining a range of horticultural machinery including tractors, pedestrian and ride-on mowers, two-stroke equipment and modern battery-powered tools.
5. Knowledge and understanding of lawn care, ground preparation, composting and mulching.
6. Excellent communication skills and a positive, proactive approach to work .
7. The ability to demonstrate an enthusiasm for horticulture.
8. A practical, self-motivated approach with pride in maintaining high standards.
9. The ability to work independently as well as part of a small team.

Gappers play an integral part in the school community, supporting all staff in the care of the boys, through a variety of roles and responsibilities, with no two days being the same.  You will spend time on the games pitches, in the classroom, supervising activities and meals, helping with laundry and boarding duties and will also be involved with the preparation of special events such as school plays, concerts and Sports Day.