Driver / Caretaker – Part Time (Merseyside)

Job Description

Driver / Caretaker – Part-Time

Employment Overview

The Birtenshaw Group is actively recruiting a Driver / Caretaker to integrate into our specialized Transport department. Our drivers perform a vital service by ensuring the secure transit of children and young adults to various regional sites. This role follows a 20-hour weekly commitment, structured exclusively around the school term. The working schedule utilizes a split-shift arrangement, requiring availability for both morning and afternoon routes.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants are required to hold a full, manual UK driving license that includes Category D1 authorization, maintained for at least 24 months.

Compensation & Schedule:

• Annual Salary: £24,587 – £25,412 (pro rata).

• Hourly Equivalent: £12.74 – £13.17.

• Contract: Term-time only.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support the group’s mission by transporting children and young people to specified locations using fleet vehicles.

• Oversee the security of Birtenshaw premises, including locking buildings after evening or weekend events.

• Maintain and advocate for strict Health and Safety standards during the transportation of young people.

• Ensure total compliance with all DVLA mandates and legal driving requirements.

• Accurately complete all necessary documentation regarding vehicle safety checks and maintenance schedules.

• Uphold high standards of cleanliness and presentation for all assigned vehicles.

• Configure facilities for meetings, training sessions, and various school activities.

• Facilitate the movement of supplies and deliveries across multiple organizational sites.

• Participate in general cleaning tasks and minor site maintenance.

Safeguarding Commitment

Birtenshaw is dedicated to the safety and welfare of children and vulnerable individuals, a commitment expected of every staff member. The chosen candidate must successfully complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Employment is also contingent upon satisfactory references, proof of UK work eligibility, and other standard background evaluations.

Application Deadline: February 9, 2026, at 9:00 AM.

Job Data Table

Category	Details
Company Name	The Birtenshaw Group
Location	Liverpool, United Kingdom
Locality	Fazakerley / Merseyside
Country	United Kingdom
City	Liverpool
Region	North West England
Job Type	Part-time (Term Time Only)
Salaries	£24,587 – £25,412 (Pro Rata)
Experience Level	2+ Years Driving Experience
Travel	Local (Merseyside Sites)
Language	English
Benefits	School Holidays Off, Supportive Team, Purpose-Driven Work

Skills & Competency Table

Skill	Level
Manual Driving (Category D1)	Expert
Safeguarding Awareness	Advanced
Site Security & Keyholding	Intermediate
Vehicle Maintenance Logs	Advanced
Health & Safety Promotion	Expert
Logistics & Distribution	Intermediate

Salaries Pay Calculator Table

Component	Annual Salary (Pro Rata)
Hourly Rate	£12.74 – £13.17
Monthly Estimate	£1,104 – £1,141
Total Compensation	£13,249 – £13,696 (Approx. 39 Weeks)
Notes	Pro-rata based on 20 hours per week during term time

Job Summary

This dual-purpose role involves transporting children with special needs and maintaining school sites in Merseyside. Working 20 hours weekly on a split-shift basis during term time, you will ensure safe transit, perform site security, and handle logistics. It is ideal for safety-conscious drivers with D1 manual licenses.

FAQs

• What specific license is required? You must have a full UK manual driving license with D1 entitlement held for at least two years.

• What are “split shifts”? You will likely work a morning block for school pickups and an afternoon block for drop-offs.

• Is this a year-round job? No, it is “term time only,” meaning you have school holidays off.

• Will I need a background check? Yes, an enhanced DBS check is mandatory due to working with children.

• What caretaking duties are included? Tasks include setting up rooms for events, site cleaning, and distributing deliveries.

Expert Analysis

This role offers a higher hourly rate than the 2026 projected National Living Wage, reflecting the specialized D1 license requirement. The combination of driving and caretaking provides variety, while the “term time only” structure is perfect for those seeking a work-life balance that aligns with the school calendar.

Location & Logistics Guide

The Birtenshaw Group operates prominently in the Fazakerley area of Liverpool. This location is well-connected via the A580 (East Lancs Road) and Fazakerley railway station. Transport routes for the role will cover various Merseyside sites, requiring a driver with strong local geographical knowledge of the North West.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liverpool

Career Path

Working within the Birtenshaw Group provides a pathway into Special Educational Needs (SEN) support or estates management. Drivers often progress into Transport Coordination roles, while the caretaking element offers experience for moving into Facilities Management or Health and Safety officer positions within the education or charity sectors.