After more than 20 years in the print industry, Leigh decided it was time for a career change. For him, the challenge lay in finding a role that could leverage his existing practical skills while providing the flexibility he needed to balance his personal commitments.
That’s when Leigh discovered TIB Services, the UK’s only specialist school site staffing service, that matches candidates’ skills and lifestyles with caretaking roles in local schools. This unique focus provided Leigh with a clear path to a rewarding new career.
Leigh was drawn to TIB because of the opportunity to help others and contribute to the community. "TIB appealed to me because it gave me a chance to help people [...] Performing a really valuable function within the community is rewarding in that respect alone," Leigh shares.
As Leigh already has the right practical skills and mindset, he found transitioning into the role straightforward and rewarding. From his experience, he emphasises that a "can-do attitude" is essential for school caretakers. "You've got to be willing to help at moments notice [...] and be proactive as well," he advises.
But Leigh also found the TIB Services team to be supportive. "The TIB office team are very good. They’re always there to help, and they’re always available. Bearing in mind how many staff TIB has, it’s really good to experience the service they give you when you most need it," Leigh says.
As a school caretaker, Leigh takes pride in the impact of his work. “I feel like I have made a difference to the schools I've supported because often things have fallen by the wayside a little bit due to the fact that existing caretakers have gone off sick [...] you're stepping in and bringing the maintenance up to scratch."
One of the key benefits Leigh has experienced with TIB is the flexibility to balance work and home life. "TIB fits in very well for me, because my wife works long hours, and it allows me to step in and actually provide support for my home life as well. Houses don't run themselves. You have to actually be there at certain times," Leigh explains. For candidates like Leigh, the ability to pick and choose jobs that suit their schedules is invaluable.
Leigh recommends TIB Services to anyone considering a career change. "TIB isn’t just for people coming out of semi-retirement or those who’ve retired and then decided to carry on working. It’s a genuine opportunity for somebody to change their career. As long as you’ve got the right practical skills and knowledge, and you can apply that to the school environment, then go for it."