Boathouse Operative

The Harpur Trust has been inspiring and supporting the people of Bedford to help them improve their lives for over 455 years. Our new strategy will see us build on our rich heritage in education and grant giving by working together to transform young lives, right across our community. Do you have a passion for rowing, towing rowing trailers and keeping boats, blades and other equipment in good order. Could you assist in the deliver the best possible rowing experience for students? As a Boathouse Operative, you'll report to the Rowing Safety and Operations Manager, working closely with existing Boathouse team to maintain, rig and transport rowing equipment to events and training venues as required by the Directors of Rowing at Bedford School, Bedford Girls School and Bedford Modern. Events are often at weekends, and you'll normally be first to arrive and last to get away, but you'll be part of a team and not left without support to get the job done. When not at events you'll be based at the Schools Boathouse on Longholme Island in Bedford. As an organisation we have a big responsibility; we're here to inspire and develop the next generation and we're here to support our town to be a positive place for everyone living and working here. To do that, we need talented, professional, committed people with diverse voices, cultures and experience. We look for people who are passionate about what they do, and who care about improving the lives of others. We pride ourselves on providing a positive culture for all staff and we celebrate diversity in our workforce, recognising the wealth of ideas and experience that a diverse workforce can bring. Joining our team means working for a people focussed organisation which does great things in and for our community.Responsibilities

• To assist the Rowing Safety and Boathouse Operations Manager to provide Harpur Trust Schools with the very best of rowing experience to students.
• To assist with the maintenance of the annual service plan for all Harpur Trust School Boats and equipment.
• To refurbish, service and regularly clean boats and equipment ensuring these are maintained in excellent condition.
• Ensure the Boathouse is kept tidy and well organised so there is ease of access to all Boats and in line with Health & Safety guidance from the Rowing Safety & Operations Manager.
• Ensure that all Boats, Oars, Jackets and other Rowing Kit is well maintained, clean and put away appropriately.
• Accountable for preparing boats and equipment for competitive rowing, including loading and unloading of trailers.
• Responsible for driving and towing trailers with boats to events both nationally and occasionally internationally as required.
• To attend the rowing events and proactively engage with and support the Rowing Directors and Crews for each School whilst on site by unloading and taking boats to the water, supporting the race teams.
• Assisting with the manning of the Boathouse.
• Promote the School's Safeguarding and Keeping Children Safe in Education policies.
• Monitor compliance with the minimum standards set in the guidance for juniors when on the water and within the environs of the Boathouse & rowing club
• Any other duties that can be reasonably expected in line with capabilities.
  
  Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The Trust may carry out online searches on shortlisted applicants.
Salary: Dependent on Candidate Experience Type: Fixed Term Contract: 40 hours per week (mid-March to end of July 2025)