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At Highlands College, thousands of Islanders pass through the campus each year – students beginning new careers, tutors preparing lessons, professionals attending training, and visitors exploring opportunities. Behind the scenes, a small team works quietly and constantly to keep the College safe, clean, and running smoothly.
One of those people is Jacek, a caretaker who has spent the past two years helping to maintain the 12 building campus and supporting more than 300 staff. His role is wide ranging, fast paced, and essential to daily life at the College.
A role with many hats
Jacek is one of a team of four, and together they look after the buildings, the outside grounds, and make sure the campus is presentable and safe for students, staff and visitors.
From the moment the team arrives on site, the day begins with essential checks. These include reviewing fire panels, testing alarm systems, and making sure heating, water, and power supplies are in good working order. Outside, they inspect the grounds, paths, and car parks to ensure everything is safe to use – especially important during wet or icy weather.
And that’s just the start. “We respond to any requests that don’t require external contractors,” Jacek says. “It could be moving furniture, delivering stationery, helping with equipment, or solving small issues before they become bigger ones. There really is no limit to what we do to support day to day operations.”
Supporting Islanders’ learning
While the work is practical, the impact is much wider. Highlands College provides education for hundreds of Islanders each year – from school leavers to adults taking evening classes, to businesses booking training or conference space.
Jacek and the team help make all that possible.
“I suppose knowing that tutors and staff can focus entirely on their jobs makes the College more attractive to the public,” he says. “We work shifts and on Saturdays so we can accommodate late courses, conferences, events – whatever the campus needs.”
By ensuring the environment is safe, bright, and welcoming, the caretakers help create the conditions that allow students to thrive.
A new direction in public service
After 21 years in retail, Jacek decided it was time for a change. He was looking for a role where he could use his skills, meet people from all walks of life, and try something new. Public service offered that fresh start.
Two years later, he’s never looked back.
“This role helped me understand how a government organisation operates and what benefits and challenges it involves,” he says. “I love working with people. I take every opportunity to build new relationships with colleagues, staff, contractors and suppliers.”
The variety has been a welcome surprise. “No day is the same,” he says. “It makes the job exciting.”
Making a visible difference
Some tasks deliver immediate results. One project especially stands out.
“When I started here, there was a lot of work to be done on the external grounds. We set a goal during the summer break to power wash the paths, car parks and most of the buildings. The results were absolutely fantastic.”
The refreshed spaces transformed how the campus looked and felt. For staff, students, and visitors, it was a cleaner and more welcoming environment – and a proud moment for the team.
Challenges that keep the team on its toes
If there’s one thing Jacek has learned, it’s to expect the unexpected.
“The biggest challenge is that we cannot predict what is going to happen,” he explains. “We often have to think on our feet. But as a small team, we’re confident we can face any challenge.”
Emergencies, lastminute requests, and quick fixes are part of daily life. Underpinning it all is teamwork – the trust and understanding that each person brings their strengths to the job.
Pride in helping others
For Jacek, the most rewarding part of the role is simple: helping people.
“Working with people and making their life a little easier is what keeps me happy and motivated,” he says.
Although he doesn’t see himself as being on the frontline, he takes pride in knowing that his work behind the scenes helps the College run smoothly, creates a better experience for students, and supports staff in doing their best work.
Advice for anyone considering public service
If you’re thinking about a career in public service, Jacek encourages you to embrace the opportunity.
“Be ready for a completely different work environment – in a positive way – than any in the private sector,” he says.
For him, that difference has brought variety, meaningful relationships, and the chance to make a genuine impact on Islanders every day.
