At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR functions and provide executive support to the Headteacher across two schools.
- Company: Join a dynamic educational trust focused on excellence and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Enjoy a varied role with opportunities for growth in a fast-paced school setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your HR and organisational skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR and strong organisational abilities are essential.
As HR Lead & PA, you will play a central role in ensuring both schools operate efficiently by leading day-to-day HR functions while providing high-quality executive support to the Executive Headteacher and leadership teams across two school sites.
You will take ownership of the full employee lifecycle, overseeing recruitment, safer recruitment compliance, payroll administration, workforce records, absence management, employee relations and performance processes. Working closely with school leaders and the Trust HR team, you will ensure that all HR practices are compliant, efficient and provide an excellent experience for staff.
Alongside your HR leadership responsibilities, you will act as the Executive Headteacher's trusted Personal Assistant, managing complex diaries, coordinating meetings, preparing reports and presentations, organising governance and leadership meetings, and ensuring the smooth coordination of strategic priorities across both schools. You will be the first point of contact for many stakeholders, exercising sound judgement, maintaining absolute confidentiality and anticipating the needs of the Executive Headteacher in a fast-paced environment.
This is a varied and rewarding role requiring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail and the ability to balance competing priorities with confidence and professionalism. You will build positive working relationships with leaders, staff, governors, Trust colleagues and external partners, providing both operational expertise and executive support that enables the schools to function effectively.
No two days will be the same. Whether you're co-ordinating a recruitment campaign, supporting employee wellbeing, preparing papers for governors, supporting school improvement projects or managing the Executive Headteacher's busy schedule, you will play a vital role in the success of both schools and the wider BMAT community.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced HR professional with exceptional administrative and organisational skills who enjoys working at the heart of a busy school environment. Your contribution will directly support our staff, our leaders and, ultimately, the outcomes and experiences of the young people we serve.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a sufficient number of suitable applications or appoint a successful candidate before the closing date. Early applications are therefore encouraged.
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HR Lead & PAEDV/2026/FHS/83291 employer: BMAT
As an HR Lead at our schools, you will be part of a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. We offer competitive benefits, including opportunities for continuous development and training, ensuring you thrive in your role while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and staff alike. Located in a dynamic educational environment, you will enjoy the unique advantage of collaborating with passionate educators and leaders dedicated to excellence in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Lead & PAEDV/2026/FHS/83291
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at BMAT!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at BMAT.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at BMAT. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to BMAT and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at BMAT. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to BMAT's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at BMAT
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with BMAT.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at BMAT will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact BMAT and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
