How could I explain my job at Winchester College to someone outside?

It’s unlike any other position I’ve ever had. I first came as a contractor, rewiring Chawker's ready for James Hodgins to take over as Housemaster in 2009. I remember sitting down with James and Rowena over a cup of tea while they told me about the school, with all its customs and traditions. Even then I realised that it must be a very special place.

Later I ended up working as an electrician all over the site: in classrooms, under floors, and in Moberly Library, rewiring and upgrading essential systems. During lunch breaks, I would often look out across the grounds and think about how unique the College was. It had a great history and amazing architecture, but there was something about its sense of community as well.

One day, I was asked whether I would consider applying for a permanent role. In May 2015, I did exactly that. I was already working on site, so I changed out of my boiler suit one morning and attended the interview. Two weeks later I received a letter offering me the position of Lead Electrician.

I quickly realised that the electrical work itself was only one part of the role. The greater challenge for someone who works here full time is understanding the needs of the school and the people within it. I learned a tremendous amount from colleagues throughout the school. Over time, I came to understand that Winchester functions because every department works together to help the pupils succeed.

Another part of my role involves helping to care for the College’s historic infrastructure. I’ve developed a particular interest in the clocks around the site, many of which require specialist attention and ongoing maintenance. The one in Moberly Library is especially close to my heart because of its unusual mechanism, which can only be accessed from behind. The clock in the Chapel bell tower is equally distinctive: it has no visible face, with the only dial located on the mechanism itself. One of my personal ambitions is to see the clock and bell frame fully restored, with the chimes going again.