At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an HR Advisor, leading recruitment and supporting staff in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Be part of Avonbourne Academies, a thriving educational community committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and tailored professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value respect, equality, and ambition in our community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your HR career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience in HR with strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 38000 £ per year.
Avonbourne Boys' and Girls' Academies are two 11-16 secondary schools based in East Bournemouth where students share a campus and are taught in predominantly single sex classes. When students reach our onsite United Sixth Form, mixed classes are reinstated. We believe this diamond model of education recognises that as boys and girls reach their teenage years, they approach their learning differently allowing us to get the most out of every student.
Disruption-free teaching is the promise at Avonbourne with the notion of continuous improvement underpinning all we do. The Academies advocate a coaching culture, where teachers develop as reflective practitioners, utilising shared best practice and evidence-based teaching and learning initiatives. In-house CPD is extensive and high quality and compliments numerous external CPD opportunities within United Learning and through nationally recognised training and qualifications.
Pastoral care is superb, with a highly trained team that are morally driven and extremely effective. We encourage students to develop their skills through the provision of educational opportunities which enable young minds to play a part in creating a future which has opportunities for all and encourages aspiration and determination. Our REACH values of Respect, Equality, Ambition, Community and Hard work & Determination underpin all aspects of academy life for staff and students.
We are #AVBProud and look forward to showing you around our Academies. Avonbourne Boys' and Girls' Academies are part of United Learning, a large, and growing, group of schools aiming to offer a life-changing education to children and young people across England. United Learning is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check.
We always appoint on merit, and we are open to discussing flexible working options.
Job details
- Salary: £34,000 - £38,000 FTE or £30,841 - £34,470 actual if term time only depending on experience
- Start Date: 1 September 2026 or sooner if available, depending on pre-employment checks
- Hours: 37.5 hours a week Monday to Friday, option of 52 weeks or Term Time only (including inset days) plus 2 additional weeks (41 working weeks, plus pro rata holiday allowance of 6.17 weeks) depending on candidate preference
- Closing Date: Midnight on Sunday 7th June 2026
About the role
This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to join a large Outstanding secondary school as HR Advisor, playing a pivotal role delivering a high quality HR service across the Academies. We are seeking an experienced, highly organised and proactive HR professional to provide expert HR support to the Senior Leadership Team and all stakeholders. This is a key role within the school, requiring excellent interpersonal skills, discretion, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading on recruitment and onboarding
- Ensuring compliance with Safer Recruitment Practices including being accountable for the Single Central Register
- Processing payroll
- Providing expert advice on employee relations, policies and procedures
- Supporting managers with absence management, disciplinaries, and performance issues
- Line manage the HR Administrator
About you
The successful candidate will:
- Have CIPD Level 5 (or working towards) or equivalent experience
- Have proven experience in a generalist HR role
- Have strong knowledge of employment law and best practice
- Demonstrate excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Be highly organised, detail-focused, and able to prioritise effectively
- Demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and integrity at all times
- Be proactive, flexible, and committed to supporting the wider life of the school
At Avonbourne Academies, our work is guided by five core REACH values: Respect, Equality, Ambition, Community, and Hard Work & Determination. These values underpin everything we do, from the way we teach and lead, to the culture we build for our students and staff. We believe in developing not only academic excellence, but strong character, resilience and integrity. As part of our team, you will play an important role in modelling and nurturing these qualities in the young people we serve.
Since joining United Learning in August 2019, Avonbourne Academies have gone from strength to strength:
- Avonbourne Boys’ Academy – Rated OUTSTANDING in November 2023
- Avonbourne Girls’ Academy – Rated OUTSTANDING in all categories in October 2024
We can offer you:
- The opportunity to work as part of a supportive team
- One personal day every academic year
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme – Avonbourne contribute 23.6% each month on top of your contribution!
- Occupational sick pay, protecting you and your family
- Access to our health care cash plan and rewards scheme after six months service.
- Continuous Professional Development options that will be tailored to your needs.
- Competitive maternity, paternity and adoption benefits.
Avonbourne Academies are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants.
Note – We reserve the right to close the vacancy early prior to the published closing date and interview and offer to a strong candidate. It is strongly recommended that candidates submit their application as soon as possible. No further applications will be accepted once closed.
For more information
To apply, please complete the online application form. For more information about this role please contact: recruitment@avonbourneacademy.org.uk
Closing date for applications: Midnight on Sunday 7th June 2026
HR Advisor in Bournemouth employer: Avonbourne-Boys
Avonbourne Boys' and Girls' Academies is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, staff enjoy extensive CPD opportunities, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme, and a culture rooted in respect and community values. Located in East Bournemouth, the Academies foster a collaborative atmosphere where educators can thrive and make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Advisor in Bournemouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work at Avonbourne or similar academies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's values and culture. Familiarise yourself with their REACH values and think about how your experience aligns with them. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common HR scenarios that might come up during the interview. Think about how you'd handle recruitment challenges or employee relations issues. Being ready with examples will demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Avonbourne team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Advisor in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the HR Advisor role. We want to see how you embody our REACH values and can contribute to our supportive team.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your HR expertise! Whether it’s your knowledge of employment law or your experience in recruitment, let us know how you can bring value to Avonbourne Academies.
Be Professional Yet Personable:While we appreciate professionalism, we also love a bit of personality! Share your passion for education and how you can support our mission in your application. It helps us get to know the real you.
Apply Early!:We recommend getting your application in as soon as possible. The sooner you apply, the better your chances are of being considered before the closing date. Head over to our website to submit your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avonbourne-Boys
✨Know Your REACH Values
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the REACH values of Respect, Equality, Ambition, Community, and Hard Work & Determination. Be ready to discuss how these values resonate with your own experiences and how you can embody them in your role as an HR Advisor.
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your knowledge of employment law, recruitment processes, and employee relations. Highlight any situations where you've successfully managed competing priorities or resolved conflicts, as this will show your capability in a fast-paced environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's culture, the HR team's dynamics, and how they implement their coaching culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your professional values.
✨Practice Discretion and Professionalism
As an HR Advisor, discretion is key. During the interview, demonstrate your understanding of confidentiality and professionalism by discussing how you would handle sensitive information. This will reassure the interviewers of your integrity and suitability for the role.
