Finding a new mission after a 23-year career
Richard Parsons has a background built on service and hard work. After a 23-year career in the Army, he worked in satellite installation and long-haul lorry driving. While he liked the independence of being on the road, the unpredictable hours and long commutes were beginning to take their toll.
At 61, Richard was not looking to retire. Instead, he wanted a role that offered the chance to support his local community and give him a genuine sense of purpose.
A seamless transition with TIB Services
Richard discovered TIB Services online. Even though he had been out of the military for 14 years, he found that the specialist focus on ex-service personnel made the transition into school caretaking very smooth.
"TIB was great for me," Richard explains. "They got my feet under the table straight away. All the paperwork, the Enhanced DBS check, and the risk assessments were done online from home, so you don’t need to go anywhere and everything is done for you through TIB, which I thought was great."
For Richard, the biggest draw was finding work that met his specific requirements. Rather than a long commute, he secured a role just 10 minutes from his home.
More than just maintenance
Being a school caretaker is about much more than fixing leaks. Richard manages complex compliance systems to ensure water safety, fire alarms, and security protocols are met to keep children and staff safe.
"You are accountable," says Richard. "It has become more technical, and you need to be switched on. But you also get to use your hands." Richard has used his military experience to go far beyond the standard job description. He has built mud kitchens for the children and even fitted carpets in seven classrooms over a half-term break.
Rewarding work at the heart of your community
The role has allowed Richard to trade the isolation of a lorry cabin for the vibrant life of a school. He is now a well-known figure who is greeted by name by hundreds of children and parents every day.
His dedication has been recognised by the school leadership. Richard was recently surprised during a Friday assembly when the Headteacher and the CEO of the Trust publicly thanked him for his hard work. "The CEO told me he had never had such positive feedback from parents on a survey," Richard shares. "I do not do it for the reward, but it is nice to know you are making a difference."
Whether he is taking part in the school sports field activities or organising parent volunteers to help with school improvements, Richard has found a role that is local, flexible, and deeply rewarding.
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