Job Description

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Job Title
Site Manager

Grade
Local Government Scale 8, Spine point 25 (£37,092) - 28 (£39,881)

Reports to
School Business Manager

Liaison with
· Headteacher

· School Business Manager

· Teaching and support staff

· Contractors, including catering and cleaning teams.

· Governors

· Essex County Council officers

· External service providers

· Emergency services

Application close date
22 June 2026

Interview Date
1st July 2026

Job Purpose

The Site Manager is responsible for the effective day-to-day management of the school's buildings, grounds and facilities, ensuring a safe, secure and well-maintained environment for pupils, staff and visitors.

The postholder will lead the site team, oversee contractors and service providers, act as the school's Health and Safety Responsible Person, and support compliance with Essex County Council policies and statutory requirements.

The role also includes key holder responsibilities and responding to site emergencies when required.

Key Responsibilities
Pool management

· Harlow Fields has a Hydro Pool, and full training will be given with regard to the day to day upkeep.

Site Operations & Maintenance

· Manage the day-to-day operation, maintenance and security of the school site, ensuring a safe, welcoming and accessible environment for pupils, staff and visitors.

· Undertake and oversee routine maintenance, repairs, inspections and planned preventative maintenance.

· Ensure buildings, grounds, specialist learning areas and external spaces are maintained to a high standard and are suitable for pupils with additional needs. This includes litter picking and ensuring drains/gullies are free-flowing and clear.

· Coordinate room setups, equipment moves and site support for school activities and events.

· Monitor and prioritise maintenance requests and maintain appropriate stocks of equipment and supplies.

· Provide access, where possible, to the site and classrooms in the event of snow, minor flooding or any other similar emergencies.

· Operating the heating plant so that the required temperatures are maintained on the premises and there is an adequate supply of hot water, this includes any frost management.

· Carrying out minor first line repairs including, but not limited to: redecoration, repairing fencing, plumbing works and bring to the attention of the school business manager any repairs or maintenance which is beyond the competence of the site manager.

· Monitoring the progress of planned projects involving outside contractors.

Health, Safety & Compliance

· Act as the school's designated Health and Safety Responsible Person.

· Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, safeguarding expectations, and Essex County Council health and safety procedures.

· Carry out regular site inspections, fire safety checks, risk assessments and compliance monitoring.

· Maintain accurate records of inspections, testing, maintenance and statutory certifications.

· Promote a positive safety culture and ensure safe working practices for staff, contractors and visitors.

· Lead, support and supervise the site team, ensuring effective deployment of resources and high standards of service delivery.

· Manage external contractors, cleaning and catering services, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently and in accordance with school requirements.

· Liaise with the Headteacher, Senior Leadership Team, Governors, Essex County Council representatives and external agencies on premises-related matters.

Security & Emergency Response

· Act as a key holder and respond to site emergencies when required.

· Ensure the security of the premises through regular checks, alarm monitoring and site lock-up procedures.

· Support emergency planning, business continuity arrangements and responses to incidents affecting the school community.

General

· To comply with individual responsibilities and training in accordance with the role for health and safety in the workplace.

· Contribute to maintaining an inclusive, safe and supportive environment that enables pupils with special educational needs to learn and thrive.

· Carrying out school based procedures in the event of fire, flooding, break-ins, accidents or major damage.

· Ensure all duties and services provided are in line with the school's equality policy.

· To participate in the school's performance and development process taking personal responsibility for identifying learning, development and training.

· Undertake any other duties commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post.

Person Specification

Essential

· Experience in site, premises, facilities or estates management.

· Experience of building maintenance, repairs and contractor management.

· Experience of health and safety compliance.

· Experience of leading or supervising staff.

Desirable

· Experience within a school, SEND or public sector environment.

· Experience managing service contracts and budgets.

Knowledge & Skills

Essential

· Good knowledge of health and safety and building maintenance.

· Strong organisational, IT and record-keeping skills.

· Ability to prioritise work, solve problems and respond to emergencies.

· Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

· Knowledge of school compliance requirements, safeguarding and accessibility standards.

Personal Qualities

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

· Ability to work positively within a special educational needs' environment.

· Reliable, adaptable and professional approach.

· Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Information about the School

Harlow Fields School and College is an all age special school for pupils with severe, moderate and complex needs. We are an inclusive, vibrant learning environment offering high quality education and care for all.