School Gardner

Cobham Intermediate is seeking a reliable, practical, and hardworking Gardener to join our grounds team and help maintain our school’s gardens and outdoor spaces.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, understands what good garden maintenance looks like, and is happy to roll up their sleeves and get the job done. We need to know the difference between a weed and a plant! You will work closely with our Caretaker and contribute to keeping the school environment safe, tidy, and welcoming for students and staff.

About the role

The Gardener is responsible for the ongoing care and presentation of garden beds and landscaped areas across the school. While much of the work is carried out independently, there will be times when you will work alongside the Caretaker, particularly for tasks that require two people.

Key responsibilities

Weekly tasks (approximate time allocation):

Weeding of garden beds on a rotating schedule – approx. 3 hours
Leaf blowing and debris removal from astro turf areas – approx. 1 hour
Maintenance of swale areas, including clearing debris and blockages – approx. 2 hours

Seasonal and as-needed tasks:

• Weed spraying during spring and summer
• Planting of new plants and flowers
• Pruning, mulching, and general garden maintenance
• Assisting the Caretaker with grounds-related tasks when required

Hours of work

This is a seasonal role:

• Approximately 8 hours per week on average during term time
• More hours may be required during spring and summer
• Hours will reduce in winter (minimum of approximately 5 hours per week)

You will work with the Caretaker to balance hours across the year and are expected to keep an accurate record of hours worked for transparency.

About you

We are looking for someone who:

• Knows the difference between a plant and a weed
• Is physically fit and prepared for hands-on outdoor work
• Works well independently and as part of a team
• Is reliable, practical, and takes pride in their work
• Uses tools and machinery safely and responsibly
• Communicates well and follows agreed processes

Previous gardening or grounds experience is preferred but not essential for the right person.

If you enjoy working outdoors and want to contribute to a school environment that is valued by its community, we would welcome your application.

Applications close Friday 16 October 2026.