Job Description: Premises Assistant (SEN School)
Location: Newbury, Berkshire
Role Type: Full-time-
Working Environment: Special Educational Needs (SEN) School
Role Overview The Premises Assistant is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operation, safety, and maintenance of the school site. This includes opening and closing the premises, carrying out routine maintenance tasks, and ensuring the site remains safe, secure, clean, and well-presented for pupils, staff, and visitors.
Working within an SEN school environment, the post holder must be attentive, proactive, and able to respond to the specific needs of the setting, ensuring a safe and accessible environment for all users.
Key Responsibilities Site Security and Opening/Closing Duties

• Open the school site each morning, ensuring all buildings are unlocked, alarms are deactivated, and the premises are ready for use
• Carry out security checks of the site, identifying and reporting any issues
• Close and secure the site at the end of the day, including locking doors, windows, setting alarms, and ensuring all systems are safe and operational
• Monitor access to the site and act as a key holder, responding to out-of-hours call-outs if required

• Undertake minor repairs and general maintenance tasks across the site
• Carry out basic plumbing, carpentry, decorating, and grounds maintenance as required
• Identify and report larger faults or maintenance issues to the appropriate contractor or line manager
• Assist with planned preventative maintenance checks

• Support compliance with health and safety regulations across the site
• Conduct routine checks, including fire safety equipment, emergency exits, and general site hazards
• Ensure that any hazards or risks are promptly reported and addressed
• Assist with fire drills and emergency procedures

• Maintain the cleanliness and presentation of external areas, including grounds, pathways, and outdoor spaces
• Support waste management, including bin handling and recycling procedures
• Assist with setting up rooms and spaces for meetings, events, and school activities

• Provide practical support for school events, activities, and lettings where required
• Liaise with contractors, cleaners, and other staff to ensure smooth site operations
• Work collaboratively with the wider school team to maintain a safe and functional environment

• Previous experience in a premises, caretaking, or maintenance role (desirable)
• Basic knowledge of general building maintenance and repairs
• Understanding of health and safety procedures in a workplace setting
• Ability to carry out manual tasks and work independently
• Good organisational and problem-solving skills
• Basic IT skills for logging issues and communicating as required

• Reliable, punctual, and trustworthy (essential for key holder responsibilities)
• Flexible and able to respond to changing priorities
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues
• Ability to work effectively within a team and independently
• Awareness and sensitivity to the needs of pupils in an SEN environment

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
• Adherence to all safeguarding, health and safety, and school policies and procedures at all times
• Willingness to undertake relevant training, including safeguarding and health and safety training