Seasonal Estates Operative - Ryde School

Job Posted: 17 February 2026

• Contract Term: Fixed Term
• Location: Ryde, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: Competitive rates of pay
• Industries: Horticulture Maintenance Mechanical and Electrical

SEASONAL ESTATES OPERATIVE - GROUNDS & MAINTENANCE

FULL TIME, FIXED TERM

IMMEDIATE START

We have a new opportunity for an Estates Operative to join our team on a seasonal basis. The role will require the successful candidate to be part of a multi-skilled team dedicated to maintaining and upholding the buildings, gardens and grounds in a 17-acre site.

Reporting to the Maintenance Manager, you will work as part of a team to ensure that a safe external environment exists for pupils and staff. As such, key duties will include:

• Pitch Preparation: Line marking, aerating, and maintaining natural and artificial sports surfaces for summer fixtures.
• Horticultural Care: Mowing, strimming, planting, and weeding to keep lawns and ornamental gardens in top condition.
• Machinery Operation: Safely using tractors, ride-on mowers, and power tools, including performing minor mechanical repairs.
• Site Safety & Logistics: Assisting with event set-ups (sports days, open days), supervising contractors, and acting as a keyholder when required.
• Team Support: Liaising with the Sports Department to ensure facilities meet match requirements.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A proven track record in performing general grounds tasks, landscaping or mechanical maintenance.
• The adaptability to coordinate the wide variety of tasks needed both planned and reactive, reacting to changing weather conditions.
• Pride in your work, understanding and contributing towards the School’s drive for excellence.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to Safeguarding and Health & Safety.
• A flexible approach, being available to work on a rota basis, including some evenings and Saturdays.
• A full, clean licence is essential; you may be required to drive the school minibus.

Location and Hours of Work

Ryde School is a vibrant place to work where all staff contribute to providing an exceptional educational experience for our pupils through our shared values. We work in the grounds of a 17-acre site that overlooks the Solent and within walking distance of Ryde town. Our facilities reflect the rich history of the school, blending both traditional and modern buildings, sport facilities (employees can use the school gym), the Jenny Kerry Performing Arts Centre and our barista coffee shop, The Pavilion. In return for you providing exceptional grounds and facilities support, we will offer a competitive salary, 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), car parking allocation in our staff car park, cycle to work scheme, free lunch during term time, and many more of the benefits you would expect from an employer that strives to be an employer of choice.

Applicants should send their completed Ryde School Support Staff application form with covering letter, to: Mrs Mandy Parry, HR Administrator or email the documents to [email protected]. An electronic application would be preferable.

Applications will be handled on an ongoing basis and we reserve the right to withdraw this advert should a suitable candidate be found, therefore early applications are encouraged.

Ryde School 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 checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Ryde School is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion. Ryde School does not discriminate on the grounds of race or colour, nationality or national or ethnic origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, age, and disability. Applications are welcome from a diverse range of backgrounds.

Ryde School is an equal opportunities employer.

Ryde School is a Registered Charity No. 307409