At Great Ballard we aim to create a family environment in everything we do. We welcome parents and grandparents and hope they will feel part of the school. Whether it’s for formal parent evenings, joining a weekend Groundforce volunteering morning, spectating at matches and school plays or simply enjoying morning coffee on the terrace or in the library at one of our regular family events, we understand that the opportunity to feel part of the community and form friendships is important for the whole family.
We are delighted to include parents in the event planning of the school and invite parents to join ‘Friends of Great Ballard’ (FoGB for short). The Friends volunteer as class reps to help welcome new families, keep their class updated with information and organise social events for children and parents.
FoGB are responsible for putting on many of our marvellous annual events including the Christmas Fair and the Summer Fete. These events help to reinforce a sense of community that we consider paramount to our school and all money raised goes towards benefitting the school, such as funding new equipment and resources, as well as supporting local charities. Anyone is welcome to get involved and it is a fantastic way to get to know other parents. It doesn’t matter how much or how little time you have to offer, FoGB would be delighted to hear from you.
It’s not just our pupils who grow at Great Ballard. We are always on the lookout for enthusiastic, forward thinking and purposeful people who are interested in becoming part of our journey and our ever strengthening team. From our classrooms to our kitchens and from our domestic staff to our office team you will find people who understand the school’s vision and are excited about delivering the very best outcomes for our children. If you are keen to be part of something great then take a look at our vacancies below or get in touch with Jacqui Whall at j.whall@greatballard.co.uk.
Hours: Monday to Friday, 47.5hrs per week (including one hour unpaid lunch), 52 weeks per year.
Start date: 1 September 2026
Salary: £30,828 per annum (subject to review in September 2026)
We are now looking for an exceptional Groundsperson with the can-do attitude, taste for adventure and vision to support us with our plans. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate exceptional skill and knowledge with regards to school grounds and have a desire to create an outdoor space where our students can learn and thrive.
The Grounds Person will work as part of the Facilities Team, to maintain and develop the school grounds to the highest possible standards and in line with school development plan. The successful candidate will be a fully participating member of the school community. This role requires a flexible, enthusiastic attitude with the ability to work alone. It is also essential that candidates demonstrate a passion for gardening and landscaping.
Interested candidates are invited to contact Jacqui Whall to arrange a confidential discussion about the role: j.whall@greatballard.co.uk or call on 01243 814236.
Please email your completed application form and covering letter (both as PDF files please) to Jacqui Whall, at j.whall@greatballard.co.uk.
Closing date for applications is 9am on Friday 3rd July 2026.
The school reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
“A school with a heart”
Great Ballard is a tight-knit and happy community but we are always looking outwards and creating links with the world beyond our gates. We regularly open our doors to the public and the school is a venue for weddings, activity camps and sports clubs. We establish links with local businesses and support our village and our neighbours. But above all we teach our pupils the value of service, charity and giving. It matters to us that children set their own goals and plan their own fundraising projects. They learn life skills along the way, the power of purpose and the value of prioritising activism over apathy.
We love to hear from former pupils about what they are up to and they are always welcome to come and see how the school has changed at one of our organised events. Do get in touch to be put on our Alumni mailing list.
