Role Introduction

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Gardener to join our award winning Grounds team. The successful post-holder will be responsible for the cultivation and maintenance of areas of Eton College to an exceptionally high standard. You will contribute towards the delivery of garden plans and programmes of work under the direction of the Gardens Supervisor and Deputy Grounds Manager/Grounds Manager.

Eton College offers an outstanding working environment amidst beautiful surroundings, a wide range of benefits and prides itself on a warm and friendly community, where staff are valued. 

Working Pattern

• 37.5 hours per week, working 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, with a 30 minute unpaid lunch break.
• 52 weeks per year.
• 21 days contractual annual leave, plus additional discretionary leave over the Christmas shut-down period (normally 3 days);
• When a bank holiday falls within a school term period, this is considered to be a working day and a day off in lieu will be given.

Due to the needs of the school and the department, we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. This job may also close early if a large number of applications are received. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply.

Main Duties

• Day to day cultivation and maintenance of gardens and formal areas;
• Maintenance is to include but not exhaustive of the following; pruning, weeding, planting, mowing, fertilising, spraying;
• Plant and tree identification;
• Identify and control weeds, pests and diseases;
• Prepare ground for new and existing planting schemes;
• Carry out specific projects as directed;
• Driving work-related vehicles such as utility buggies and tractors;
• The safe use and operation of equipment and machinery used in Horticultural maintenance;
• To adhere to current Health and Safety legislation and best practice in accordance with the Colleges Health and Safety Policy Statement;
• To ensure own safety, and the safety of others who may be affected by your actions. Employees must follow instructions and co-operate at all times with their line manager to enable Eton College to meet its legal responsibilities. Employees must stop work if the nature of the situation involves risk of serious injury to any person and must report any hazardous situation or defective equipment to their line manager without delay;
• To undertake any other duties as may reasonably be required of you in the post;
• Commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion;
• All positions at Eton are classed as ‘regulated activity’ as per the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024 guidance, therefore a good understanding of safeguarding procedures is essential;
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, including but not limited to, completing safeguarding training as required, and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood;
• Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality.

The Ideal Candidate

Skills and Competencies Required

To be successful in this role, you will need to be able to demonstrate the following;

• Good general knowledge of horticulture;
• National/ Scottish Vocational Qualification Level 2 in Horticulture or BTEC First Diploma or equivalent;
• Relevant gardening experience (ideally two years);
• NPTC PA1 and PA6 Spraying Certificate;
• A valid UK driving licence.

You may enjoy this role if:

• You are someone who takes pride in their work;
• You enjoy being part of a thriving, successful team;
• You have a good sense of initiative.

Benefits

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including an 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution), Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme, a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free or heavily discounted access to the College’s sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

About the College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity. We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.

If you have any queries about the application process or any problem with submitting your application online, the Recruitment Team will be happy to help. Should you require any reasonable adjustments to be made or facilities provided to enable you to apply online, please do not hesitate to contact us on recruitment@etoncollege.org.uk so we can make adjustments accordingly. 

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online search and, where applicable, Prohibition checks. If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form.  Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS. The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as “spent” under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules. It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.

Eton College