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- Tasks: Support the Head of HR with payroll, recruitment, and HR administration in a school environment.
- Company: Sydenham School, dedicated to student achievement and professional development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll, recruitment, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Flexible role with excellent career progression in a vibrant school community.
The predicted salary is between 26100 - 27300 £ per year.
HR Officer required ASAP. Mon-Fri - 35 hours per week. Term Time + INSET and 10 days to be worked in school holidays (41 weeks). Actual salary £30,118 - £31,007 per annum.
Sydenham School is seeking to appoint an experienced and highly motivated HR Officer to support the Head of HR across all aspects of the school’s HR function. The successful candidate will deliver a first-class, professional and approachable HR service to the whole school community.
The role covers a wide range of responsibilities, including:
- Payroll processing
- Recruitment
- HR administration
- DBS processing
- Issuing contracts of employment
- Coordinating statutory returns such as the workforce census and other required data submissions
We are seeking a candidate with strong experience in payroll processing, hands-on involvement in recruitment activities, and a sound understanding of employment terms and conditions. Strong IT skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under pressure are essential. You will need to be an outstanding communicator, both verbally and in writing, and demonstrate exceptional administrative and organisational abilities.
Experience working within a school environment would be advantageous. Flexibility is vital in meeting the varied and complex needs of a large school, as is the ability to build positive, trusting relationships with students, families, staff, Governors, and the wider school community.
We believe that all of our students are capable of performing highly. Sydenham School can offer you excellent professional development and rewarding opportunities, working with a forward-thinking Senior Leadership Team that is passionate about the achievement and progress of every student in the school.
Please speak to Allison Costello, Head of HR for more information about the post: ext 424. The closing date for applications is 9.00am on 05/02/2026. Interview date to be confirmed.
The school is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and diversity. We have a clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Safeguarding is the ‘golden thread’ that runs through the school. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed. Original evidence of the right to work within the United Kingdom will be required prior to commencement of employment i.e. National Insurance Number, Work Permits or Indefinite Leave to Remain. If the applicant has lived/worked overseas for 12 months or more since the age of 18, they will also be required to obtain a Certificate of Good Conduct from the country(ies) they lived/worked in at their own expense and provide these for our records.
Sydenham School - HR Officer in London employer: Borough of Lewisham
Contact Detail:
Borough of Lewisham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sydenham School - HR Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at Sydenham School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent achievements. We want to see how you can contribute to their mission of supporting students. Tailor your answers to show you’re on the same page!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your HR skills during the interview! Be ready to discuss your experience with payroll processing and recruitment. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email to Allison Costello can leave a lasting impression. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Sydenham School - HR Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Officer role at Sydenham School. Highlight your experience in payroll processing, recruitment, and any relevant school environment experience. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our school community. Be sure to mention your strong communication skills and attention to detail, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your IT Skills: Since strong IT skills are essential for this position, make sure to mention any relevant software or systems you've worked with. If you've handled HR databases or payroll systems, let us know – we love to see that experience!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our school and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Lewisham
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of payroll processing, recruitment, and employment terms. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in these areas, as they are crucial for the HR Officer role at Sydenham School.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an HR Officer, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built relationships in previous roles, whether with staff, students, or families. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with the school community.
✨Be Detail-Oriented
Attention to detail is key in HR. Bring along examples of how you've managed complex data submissions or administrative tasks in the past. Highlighting your organisational skills will show that you're capable of handling the demands of the role.
✨Flexibility is Key
The school environment can be unpredictable, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing circumstances in previous jobs. Share specific instances where your flexibility made a positive impact, showing that you can meet the varied needs of the school.
