Christmas lovers who are already counting down to the big day could be in line to get their dream job this winter – as the big man himself.
With plenty of seasonal work on offer in London throughout the festive period, it can be a great time to bag some extra cash for Christmas presents. For job-hunters who never tire of tinsel and wish Michael Bublé was being blasted on the radio year round, a role in one of the many Santa’s Grottos around London could be the perfect fit.
Great Grottos currently have roles listed all over the country, including six sites in London. Locations include Sutton, Wandsworth, Ealing, Waterloo, Romford and Wood Green. The company, which professes to be the leading employer of Santa’s and elves in the UK, is looking for eager applicants to fill roles as Father Christmas, his elves and as grotto managers.
To be a grotto Santa you don’t need any past experience, but you will have big shoes to fill. Successful applicants are expected to greet families, hand out presents, pose for photos, ask children what they want for Christmas and most importantly, stay in character.
In their guide for applicants, Great Grottos said: “This is a rewarding role. We want you to enjoy it. But it is vital you make an effort for every family. Families are coming to meet Santa & his Elves. You’re always in character. You arrived from the North Pole this morning, and you’re going back tonight to eat cookies & make presents.”
Who can apply
As the company custom-makes a bespoke costume for each member of staff, you don’t even need to have a white beard or big belly for the role – but the company does stipulate that applicants ‘must be male’. The minimum age to apply for a Santa role is just 28, and each new Santa will be paid for their training.
How much is Santa paid?
The role is listed at £16 an hour, £2.15 more than the current London Living Wage. With each grotto hiring between three and four Santas, the work is part-time and successful applicants can take on ‘as many or as few shifts’ as they want.
If you’d rather be one of Santa’s special helpers, Great Grottos are also looking for elves and grotto managers. Duties for elves include:
- Welcoming families to Santa’s Grotto
- Introducing children to Santa
- Taking two photos of every family
- Restocking Santa’s sacks
- Interacting and improvising with children
Meanwhile grotto managers will be expected to open and close the grotto, manage costumes and stock, organise the team and make sure ‘excellent customer service’ is being delivered. You can find out more and apply for all roles at greatgrottos.co.uk here.
Great Grottos isn’t the only company currently hiring Santas in London. Squires Garden Centre in Twickenham is looking for its own Santa, as are multiple Harvester and Toby Carvery sites. Chessington World of Adventures is also looking for a Santa to bring some festive magic to the park this winter.
Stay up to date about London’s hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!
