Head Gardener

St Albans School is a leading independent day school with an outstanding reputation for academic excellence.

We are looking to recruit a Head Gardener to join our established Maintenance team. Leading and supervising a team of two gardeners, the Head Gardener is responsible for the preparation and implementation of annual horticultural works, delivering high quality seasonal gardens and grounds. Duties include numerous gardening activities to maintain the landscaping, hedges, shrubs, lawns and planters.

Previous gardener/ground maintenance experience with responsibility for a large site is essential along with the ability to demonstrate a wide range of horticultural skills and knowledge. The successful candidate will hold NPTC level PA1 and PA6a certificates, a current driving licence with category C1 or equivalent and ideally an NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture or equivalent. Experience of supervising and leading a team would be advantageous.

The position is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. The gardening team’s workload is heavily reliant on the weather and so the ability to deal with a constantly varying workload is essential, as is a flexible and adaptable approach.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must therefore be willing to undergo child protection screening and safer recruitment checks appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. St Albans School is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and the creation of an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment selections are made according to suitability for the post, irrespective of background or protected characteristic.

The School reserves the right to make an appointment before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.