Team RAL: School Premises Manager Vacancies in Brighton – Recruitment Opportunities for October 2025

Brighton, with its vibrant communities and commitment to educational excellence, is gearing up for an important hiring drive this October 2025. Team RAL, a leading facilities and estate management provider serving educational institutions, has announced new opportunities for School Premises Managers to join schools across Brighton. If you’ve ever considered a career making a real difference in a school's day-to-day operation, this might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Why School Premises Managers Matter

Let’s start with the basics—what does a School Premises Manager do, and why is the role so important in today’s educational landscape?

A School Premises Manager is essentially the backbone of a school’s operational success. They oversee everything from building maintenance and health and safety compliance to security, cleaning schedules, and liaising with contractors. Their daily work ensures not only that students and staff enjoy a safe, clean, and positive environment but also that the school runs smoothly behind the scenes.

In Brighton, where many school buildings are blends of historic charm and modern updates, the job can get pretty involved. Premises Managers often deal with everything from routine site checks to unexpected emergencies (a leaky roof during autumn storms, anyone?). Their attention to detail and practical know-how mean the difference between a school day that’s business-as-usual or one that’s facing interruptions.

Team RAL, with its reputation for rigorous standards and commitment to supporting schools, is keen to welcome candidates who are proactive, solutions-focused, and genuinely invested in making schools the best they can be for everyone.

About Team RAL: A Quick Overview

Before you apply, it helps to know who you’d be working for!

Team RAL isn’t just another outsourcing firm. They specialize in educational facilities support—meaning their whole approach is tailored to the unique needs and expectations of schools, academies, and educational trusts. From caretaking to full estate management, Team RAL is known for nurturing talented professionals through ongoing training, high staff welfare standards, and a focus on diversity and inclusion.

Their teams work across Brighton and the wider Sussex area, supporting both primary and secondary schools, and they’ve built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and friendly professionalism.

School Premises Manager Role: Key Responsibilities

So, what exactly does the job involve, day to day? Here are the main responsibilities highlighted in the Team RAL October 2025 vacancies:

1. Site Security & Safety

You’ll be the person schools rely on for opening and closing buildings, monitoring CCTV, managing alarm systems, and responding to security concerns. On top of that, you’ll regularly check emergency exits and ensure fire safety routines are up to date.

2. General Maintenance

From leaky taps to faulty door locks, day-to-day repairs are your domain. You’ll run regular inspections, flag major issues to contractors, and keep maintenance records to ensure compliance.

3. Health and Safety Compliance

Health and safety is more than just box-ticking. You’ll oversee risk assessments, conduct safety drills, keep up with regulations, and train staff where necessary.

4. Managing Cleaning Teams and Contractors

Most premises managers lead the cleaning team, manage janitorial supplies, and coordinate with external contractors for larger jobs like plumbing or electrical repairs.

5. Grounds and Outdoor Maintenance

Whether it’s supervising the playground, tending the garden beds, or ensuring the school’s curb appeal, outdoor spaces are in your care.

6. Budget Management

You may also help plan and monitor premises budgets, order maintenance supplies, and report on spending to school leadership.

7. Supporting School Events

From parent evenings to open days and drama productions, your role makes sure the building and facilities are prepared, safe, and welcoming for every occasion.

What Skills and Experience Are Needed?

If you’re interested in applying for a School Premises Manager role with Team RAL in Brighton, here’s what they’re looking for (based on their 2025 recruitment pack):

• Facilities management or caretaking experience, especially in an educational environment—though Team RAL is open to transferable skills from related sectors.
• Solid understanding of health and safety regulations and risk assessments.
• Strong organizational abilities, including scheduling, prioritization, and record-keeping.
• DIY and practical skills; you don’t need to be a master carpenter, but basic fix-it know-how goes a long way!
• People management and teamwork, as you’ll be working with cleaning teams, school staff, contractors, and sometimes even students.
• IT literacy, especially for logging maintenance issues, safety reports, and budget tracking.
• Good communication skills—essential for explaining safety procedures and liaising with various stakeholders.
• Flexibility: Schools don’t run strictly 9 to 5; occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekend work may be expected.
• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check—required for anyone working in schools.

If you don't tick every box, don't panic! Team RAL values dedication and willingness to learn, and they offer robust training for successful candidates.

What’s On Offer? Salary, Benefits & Progression

Now for the nitty-gritty—what do you get out of it?

Starting Salary

For October 2025, Team RAL advertises School Premises Manager roles in Brighton at a starting salary range of £29,000 to £34,000, depending on experience.

Full-Time and Part-Time Positions

Most vacancies are full-time (35-40 hours/week), but Team RAL is open to discussing part-time or flexible arrangements. If you need to balance the job with family commitments, it’s worth asking.

Career Progression

One of the perks of working with Team RAL is their commitment to staff development. There are clear paths for advancement, with opportunities to move into senior premises management, area supervisory roles, or specialist facilities positions (like compliance lead or sustainability champion).

Training and Support

New Premises Managers go through a comprehensive induction, covering everything from safeguarding procedures to site-specific technical training. Ongoing CPD is offered for all staff, keeping you updated on the latest in facilities management and school regulations.

Benefits

Beyond salary, you’ll access:

• Workplace pension scheme
• 25+ days holiday (rising with service)
• Staff well-being resources (including mental health support)
• Uniform and equipment provided
• Support from a friendly, experienced head office team

Why Brighton?

Let’s be honest—Brighton isn’t just a place to work; it’s a place to enjoy life. Known for its creative scene, blue-flag beaches, and diverse communities, the city offers a great quality of life. If you’re moving from elsewhere, expect a welcoming atmosphere, lots of green spaces, great transport links, and schools that combine traditional values with forward-thinking educational approaches.

The city’s schools range from historic buildings dating back to the Victorian era to modern academies bursting with innovation. You’ll find a wide variety of work environments, each with its unique challenges and rewards.

The Application Process

Ready to take the next step? Here’s a rundown of how to apply for Team RAL’s School Premises Manager vacancies for October 2025.

1. Search Vacancies

Head over to the Team RAL careers page or Brighton local job boards. You can also check school websites directly, as some may list their own premises vacancies with Team RAL.

2. Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter

Highlight relevant experience—don’t just copy and paste your last job description. Show your problem-solving skills, your knowledge of compliance, and your ability to work with people from all backgrounds.

3. Submit Your Application

Most roles ask for your CV and a brief personal statement outlining why you’re interested in this specific position in a Brighton school.

4. Screening and Interview

If shortlisted, expect a friendly initial phone screening; then, a more formal interview—often at the school site. You’ll likely be asked behavioural questions (“Describe a time you handled a maintenance emergency”) and some practical problem-solving.

Some schools may invite you to tour the campus or meet key staff, to make sure it’s a good fit both ways.

5. References and Checks

Like any job in education, you’ll need to complete references and an Enhanced DBS background check before you start.

6. Offer and Onboarding

Team RAL prides themselves on quick, supportive onboarding—so once accepted, you’ll be part of the team before you know it.

Tips for Standing Out as an Applicant

It’s a competitive market, so here are some insider tips to help your application shine:

• Show your commitment to student welfare. If you have experience making environments safe for children or working in community settings, mention this (with specifics, if possible).
• List concrete achievements. Maybe you introduced a clever recycling program at your last workplace or managed a major refurbishment project—these details matter.
• Demonstrate initiative. Schools value people who spot problems and fix them before they escalate.
• Emphasize teamwork. Education thrives on collaboration. Show you understand the spirit of working alongside teachers, admin, and support staff.
• Get your paperwork in order. If you already have a DBS check, say so; if not, mention you’re willing to complete one.
• Don’t undervalue soft skills. Communication, empathy, and adaptability are just as important as technical know-how.

Challenges and Rewards of the Role

Every job comes with ups and downs. Here’s a candid look at the highs and lows attached to being a School Premises Manager in Brighton:

What’s Great

• Variety. No two days are the same. From tackling unexpected repairs to setting up for big school events, it’s a role that keeps you learning.
• Sense of purpose. Every fix, every safety check, makes a real difference to children’s experience in education.
• Community. You’ll get to know staff, students, and families—building relationships that last.
• Professional growth. With ongoing training, there’s always a fresh challenge to meet.
• Brighton itself! Working in a lively, creative city is a major plus.

The Challenges

• Juggling priorities. You may be asked to handle simultaneous requests from different parts of the school.
• Physical demands. The role may involve lifting, climbing ladders, and walking the site in all weathers.
• The unexpected. Sometimes things break right before a big event, or a safety issue pops up out of nowhere.
• Responsibility. Ultimately, you’re accountable for keeping everyone safe—so attention to detail is non-negotiable.

But if you enjoy problem-solving, don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, and care about making a real impact on school life, it’s a very rewarding path.

Team RAL’s Commitment to Inclusion and Support

A key part of Team RAL’s ethos is their approach to diversity and inclusion. They’re proud to hire people from all backgrounds, ways of life, and age groups; no one’s excluded on grounds of ethnicity, gender, disability, or previous experience. They also offer additional support for candidates returning to work after a career break, or those seeking part-time or flexible arrangements.

If you have a disability or access need, Team RAL encourages applicants to discuss what adjustments might suit them best. And for those less confident in digital applications, there’s telephone support and step-by-step guides—just ask.

Making Your Move: Relocating to Brighton

If you’re considering a move to Brighton for the role, Team RAL can offer local advice (sometimes even helping with relocation support or connecting new hires with housing resources).

Brighton's neighborhoods offer something for everyone, from the family-friendly Hove area to the creative North Laine and the laid-back beachside community spots. Schools love hiring candidates who genuinely want to be part of the local Brighton fabric—a win-win for candidate and city alike.

October 2025 Recruitment – Timeline & Key Dates

• Applications open: Early September 2025
• Shortlisting begins: Mid-September 2025
• Interviews: Weeks commencing 6th & 13th October 2025
• Job offers: Rolling, with final decisions by end of October 2025
• Start date: Typically November, but Team RAL offers flexibility if you have a longer notice period elsewhere

Pro tip: Applying early increases your chances, and also lets you get ahead of the references and onboarding paperwork.

The Future of Facilities Management in Schools

With energy efficiency, sustainability, and health at the forefront, the School Premises Manager role is more than “just maintenance.” Brighton’s schools are increasingly looking for candidates who can help them meet eco-targets and introduce new tech. If you have experience in “green” initiatives—solar panels, recycling programs, energy audits—be sure to mention it. Team RAL rewards forward-thinkers!

Conclusion: Your Next Step with Team RAL

If you’re searching for a career where every day brings a new challenge and the chance to make a difference, School Premises Manager vacancies with Team RAL in Brighton could be the perfect fit. With a strong support network, clear career progression, and the buzz of working in a thriving city, October 2025 is a great time to get involved.

Ready to apply? Visit Team RAL’s website, or reach out to Brighton’s school offices for the latest openings. And if you have more questions, don’t hesitate to ask—they’re always happy to help committed applicants take that next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need previous school experience to be a Premises Manager with Team RAL?

Not necessarily! While experience in an education setting helps, Team RAL welcomes applicants with facilities management, property maintenance, construction, or caretaking backgrounds from other sectors. They offer comprehensive training for all new hires, so if you’re proactive and willing to learn, you’re encouraged to apply.

2. Is the School Premises Manager role mostly hands-on, or does it involve administrative work too?

It’s a mix of both. While you’ll spend plenty of time on practical tasks—maintenance checks, safety routines—there’s also important admin work: recording incidents, scheduling works, completing risk assessments, and managing budgets. IT literacy helps, but Team RAL provides training for all their reporting systems.

3. What’s the interview process like for Team RAL premises roles?

After initial CV screening, shortlisted candidates typically have a phone interview, followed by an on-site interview (sometimes with a walkaround assessment). You’ll be asked about your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and approach to teamwork. Some roles may include practical tests, such as identifying maintenance issues or responding to hypothetical situations.

4. How flexible are working hours for School Premises Managers in Brighton?

Team RAL’s standard hours are full-time (35-40 hours/week), but many schools offer some flexibility—part-time options, job shares, or staggered shifts to accommodate early morning and evening tasks. Be upfront about your needs during application; Team RAL values staff wellbeing and aims to support work-life balance.

5. Can I progress into senior roles with Team RAL?

Absolutely. Team RAL has a strong record of promoting from within. Premises Managers can move into Senior/Supervisory roles, estate management, or specialist facilities positions. There’s ongoing training provided, and the team encourages professional development—whether you want to lead teams, tackle sustainability projects, or manage large estates.