At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to deliver efficient HR services and support employee experiences.
- Company: Be part of the City of London Academies Trust, transforming education in diverse communities.
- Benefits: Career advancement opportunities, training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Diverse workforce welcomed; must be fluent in spoken English.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while fostering a positive learning culture.
- Qualifications: Strong commitment to educational values and effective HR skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
COLAT is driven by an unwavering ambition to be the best. We believe exceptional people create outstanding schools, transforming lives and shaping the future of every student. We have academies located in north, south and east London combining the heritage and tradition of the Corporation of London with a genuinely innovative, enterprising, and entrepreneurial ethos. We are also committed to providing training and development to all our staff, plus excellent career advancement opportunities within our evolving Trust.
We:
- believe strongly in the transformational nature of education operating schools in areas of significant disadvantage.
- understand that strong outcomes lead to improved life chances for our students, so we are unapologetically results driven.
- adopt a ‘warm/strict’ approach, combining high expectations with care and support meaning that we never compromise on standards or expectations.
- ensure that no student’s background becomes a reason for low expectations.
- provide an environment where students can learn without disruption.
- maintain exemplary standards of behaviour, with systems, rituals and norms that instil strong habits.
- take great pride in fostering an exceptionally positive learning environment and we work meticulously to maintain our strong ethos and culture.
About the role
Join our busy and supportive academy team and play a key role in delivering an efficient HR service. From recruitment and onboarding to compliance, payroll administration and employee relations support, you’ll help ensure an excellent employee experience while maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding and data accuracy.
About you
You will be:
- fully aligned with our approach, understanding the critical role that all staff play in supporting a behavioural and learning culture.
- highly effective and will strive to surpass what has been achieved.
- committed to creating an environment that promotes academic, creative, sporting, linguistic and personal achievement.
This is an exciting time to be part of the City of London Academies Trust, and we very much hope that you will be inspired to want to join us. We are committed to investing in the next generation of COLAT people who will embody the Trust’s culture, values and ethos. If you match our ambition and want to join our dedicated team of professionals, we would love to hear from you.
Candidates must address the person specification in no more than 1,000 words. Applications must be submitted via the MNT portal. Interviews are scheduled to take place the week commencing 22 June 2026.
City of London Academies Trust supports Equal Opportunities Employment. City of London Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education, including enhanced DBS checks and a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the standards which flows from City of London Academies Trust vision and values. Our schools are based in the heart of an evolving community in Islington, and we value the diversity of our workforce. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join our team.
The role is covered by part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and therefore the ability to speak fluent spoken English is an essential requirement for this role.
HR Officer employer: City of London Academy Islington
At City of London Academies Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming lives through education. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth and development, offering excellent career advancement opportunities within our innovative academies located in Islington. We are committed to maintaining high standards while providing a nurturing environment for both staff and students, making it an inspiring place to work for those who share our ambition and values.
Contact Details:
City of London Academy Islington Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, dive into COLAT's values and ethos. This will help you align your answers with their mission and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common HR interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for education! Be ready to discuss how your experiences and values align with COLAT's commitment to transforming lives through education. Share specific examples that highlight your dedication.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you on their radar.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Trust's Values:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand COLAT's values and ethos. We want to see how your personal beliefs align with our mission to transform lives through education. Make sure to weave this understanding into your application!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their commitment to our approach. Address the person specification directly and give specific examples of how your experience aligns with what we’re after.
Be Clear and Concise:You’ve got a 1,000-word limit, so make every word count! Keep your sentences clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and get straight to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through the MNT portal on our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of London Academy Islington
✨Understand the Trust's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand COLAT's mission and values. They’re all about transforming lives through education and maintaining high standards. Show that you resonate with their ethos of combining care with high expectations during your conversation.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess how you handle various situations, especially in HR contexts. Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve demonstrated commitment to safeguarding, employee relations, or fostering a positive environment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
COLAT is looking for someone who is not just skilled but also passionate about education. Be ready to discuss why you believe in the transformational power of education and how you can contribute to creating an environment that promotes achievement for all students.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. This could be about their approach to staff development or how they maintain their strong culture. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation, plus it gives you a chance to assess if it’s the right fit for you.
