At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and develop people strategies while navigating complex HR issues.
- Company: Join a collaborative HR team at City College Norwich.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on how the college supports its people.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 qualified with hands-on HR experience.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence organisational development and employee relations.
The predicted salary is between 40163 - 43654 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced People Partner to join our HR Services team and work closely with leaders across the college to shape how we support, develop and manage our people. This is a broad and influential role for an HR professional who enjoys combining strong employee relations expertise with strategic workforce thinking. You will partner with managers in allocated areas, helping them navigate complex people issues while also contributing to longer-term organisational development and the delivery of our People Strategy.
Responsibilities
- Acting as a trusted HR partner to leaders and managers, offering pragmatic, balanced advice
- Leading on employee relations casework including performance, attendance, disciplinary and grievance matters
- Supporting managers through change, including restructuring, workforce planning and organisational design
- Coaching and developing leaders to build confidence and capability in people management
- Using data and insight to inform decisions and improve outcomes
- Working constructively with Trade Unions to maintain positive employee relations
- Engaging with external HR networks, benchmarking best practice and bringing new ideas back into the organisation
- Taking an active role in shaping and delivering elements of the People Strategy
Qualifications and profile
- Is CIPD Level 5 qualified (or above) with solid, hands-on HR experience
- Has strong experience of employee relations in a complex or unionised environment
- Enjoys building relationships and influencing at all levels
- Can balance empathy with sound judgement and organisational priorities
- Is curious, commercially aware and committed to continuous improvement
- Wants a role where they can have real impact, not just provide advice from the sidelines
Why join us?
You will be part of a collaborative HR team that values professionalism, fairness and curiosity. You will have the space to think, the backing to challenge constructively, and the opportunity to influence how the college supports its people now and in the future. If you are looking for a People Partner role where relationships, judgement and values genuinely matter, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: Wednesday 4 February 2026 at Midnight
Interviews Thursday 19th February 2026
As a College we are required to undertake various Safer Recruitment checks as set out within the guidance from the Department for Education Keeping Child Safe in Education. We require all staff to undertake an enhanced Adult and Child Workforce DBS Check and to register with the DBS Update Service.
People Partner. Job in United Kingdom Education & Training Jobs employer: City College Norwich
Contact Detail:
City College Norwich Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Partner. Job in United Kingdom Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at City College Norwich or similar institutions on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s all about making connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you can showcase your employee relations expertise and strategic thinking. Use real-life examples from your past roles to demonstrate your skills and how you’ve made an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the college’s People Strategy! Understanding their goals and challenges will help you tailor your responses during the interview. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your enthusiasm and fit for the role. We want to keep that connection alive!
We think you need these skills to ace People Partner. Job in United Kingdom Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the People Partner role. Highlight your relevant experience in employee relations and strategic workforce thinking, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your CIPD Level 5 (or above) and hands-on HR experience make you the perfect fit. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to navigate complex people issues.
Be Authentic: We want to see the real you! Share your passion for building relationships and influencing at all levels. Let your personality shine through, as we value professionalism and curiosity in our team.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at City College Norwich
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of a People Partner. Brush up on employee relations, workforce planning, and organisational design. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you’ve successfully navigated complex people issues or led change initiatives. This will help demonstrate your hands-on HR experience and how you can bring value to their team.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current challenges and share your thoughts on how you could help. This shows you’re not just there to provide advice but are genuinely interested in being a trusted partner.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Highlight your commitment to continuous improvement and curiosity. Discuss any professional development you've pursued, like CIPD qualifications, and how you’ve applied new ideas in previous roles. This aligns perfectly with their values and shows you’re proactive about your growth.