General duties – Premises, Security & Cleaning Leadership

To be responsible for all aspects of site management including a wide range of duties and responsibilities connected with the fabric and grounds of the school. This includes security, cleanliness, porterage, monitoring contracts/contractors, routine maintenance and refurbishment, minor repairs, advising the Academy Business Partner/Headteacher on suggested improvements to the general school environment, improving productivity of site management, and carrying out pre-planned maintenance programmes.

As Lead Cleaner, the postholder will also oversee the day‑to‑day cleaning standards across the school, ensuring a safe, hygienic and well‑presented environment for pupils, staff and visitors.

The Site Services Officer will be a dependable, honest and self‑motivated person. They will be the main key holder, responsible for opening and closing the school in liaison with the school cleaning team.

Security & Site Management

• Carry out security procedures for the school buildings and grounds, taking action to ensure site security.
• Act as a nominated key holder and respond appropriately to alarm company, police call outs and other emergencies outside normal working hours.
• Ensure that the site is maintained and fit for purpose.
• Routine and non‑routine opening and closing of premises and grounds.

Cleaning Leadership & Team Oversight (Lead Cleaner Responsibilities)

• Lead and coordinate the cleaning team, ensuring all staff understand their daily duties, cleaning schedules and priority areas.
• Monitor the performance and standards of the cleaning team, providing guidance, support and feedback where required.
• Ensure all areas of the school meet agreed hygiene and presentation standards, escalating concerns to the Academy Business Partner where necessary.
• Plan and allocate cleaning tasks, including cover arrangements during staff absence.
• Oversee stock levels of cleaning materials, ensuring appropriate and safe use of chemicals in line with COSHH requirements.
• Train new cleaning staff in safe working practices, correct use of equipment, and expected standards.
• Lead and participate in deep cleaning programmes during school holidays, ensuring all areas are completed to a high standard.
• Ensure cleaning equipment is maintained, safe, and fit for purpose, reporting defects promptly.
• Model high standards of cleaning practice, undertaking cleaning duties as required to support the team and maintain site standards.

Maintenance & Site Care

• Carry out minor maintenance work and repairs including painting.
• Responsible for basic tools and equipment and report items or maintenance work that is required and beyond the competence of site staff.
• Check for damage and liaise with the Academy Business Partner to have repairs carried out as appropriate.
• Operate heating plant to maintain required temperatures and ensure adequate supply of hot water.
• Carry out frost protection procedures.
• Carry out procedures in the event of fire, flood, break‑in, accident or major damage.
• Provide emergency access in the event of snow, minor flooding or similar situations.
• Ensure playing areas, paths and shrub borders/hedgerows are free from litter/glass.
• Ensure drains and gullies are inspected and kept free‑flowing.

Cleaning Duties (SSO & Lead Cleaner)

• Cleaning, hoovering and mopping corridors, hall, hub, staff room and offices as appropriate.
• Cleaning toilet areas within the site.
• Taking part in and leading deep cleans during holiday periods.
• Checking and restocking toilet rolls, hand towels and soap throughout the school.
• Checking and emptying outside bins.
• Outside litter picking.

Logistics & Supplies

• Receive delivery of stock, materials, etc., ensuring appropriate storage.
• Ensure adequate supply of fuel, light bulbs and janitorial materials, placing orders as necessary.
• Prepare for after‑school activities and ensure accommodation is ready for normal school use.
• Undertake school lettings in accordance with lettings procedures.
• Lock school, ensure windows are secure, electrical items switched off, blinds drawn and alarm set.

Health & Safety and Compliance

• Follow and comply with SSO log books and checks, such as fire alarm systems, weekly legionella flushing, etc.
• Review and update COSHH equipment and register, ensuring cleaning staff follow safe handling procedures.
• Ensure all compliance checks are completed in good time, liaising with outside contractors as required.
• Check school playing field and perimeter fences daily.
• Assist the Academy Business Partner in undertaking risk assessments relating to the site and cleaning activities.

Managing Contractors

• Undertake Managing Contractors training and manage all contractors on site appropriately.
• Direct contractors to sites of repair and maintenance work.
• Inspect work of contractors where satisfaction notes are required.