At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR and recruitment functions in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Solent Academies Trust, a community-focused Multi-Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Enjoy a culture of respect, belonging, and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while growing your HR career.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR, strong communication skills, and ICT competency.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 32000 £ per year.
Solent Academies Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust comprised of five special schools across Portsmouth, Compton and Basingstoke. Our sixth school will be opening in September 2026 in Botley.
We are committed to improving equity, social inclusion and closing disadvantage gaps. We believe that each school community is unique; therefore, we empower leaders to successfully implement a strategic plan that reflects the needs of their communities.
Solent Academies Trust is seeking a professional HR Advisor to work within our busy HR Team based at Acorns Business Park, Cosham, until 31st August 2027. Under the guidance of the Trust HR Lead and Senior HR Advisor you will provide support to the HR and Recruitment functions of Solent Academies Trust. This is a fast-paced reactive role; therefore, the successful candidate must be methodical, enthusiastic and highly organised, with excellent time management skills and the ability to work well under pressure. You will have a demonstrable understanding of robust and rigorous safer recruitment processes. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate a high level of ICT competency and be a strong communicator, with proven experience of working in an HR environment.
At Solent Academies Trust, we are proud to be a community built on connection, respect, and belonging. Our Relational Culture Charter guides us to work together and support each other through:
- Effective Communication
- High Challenge & High Support to Empower
- Respect for All
- Solution-Focused Approaches
We believe that when relationships thrive, people thrive – and so do the children and young people we serve.
Salary from £29,171 to £33,121 per year. By joining Solent Academies Trust, we offer you:
- Excellent staff induction with a commitment to high quality professional development aligned in relational leadership and HR excellence
- A culture rooted in relational practice, belonging, and wellbeing
- A workplace where your values, voice, and contribution truly matter
- Local Government Pension Scheme with the option of a 50/50 contribution to build over time
- Life Insurance - 3 times annual salary (for members of the pension scheme)
- Increase of annual leave after 5 years of service from 28 to 32 days
- Free onsite parking at most of our academies
- CPD opportunities to support Career development
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Employee Benefits Platform
Location: Solent Academies Trust, Northarbour Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3TH
Closing date for applications is Monday 20th July 2026, 9am. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 28th July 2026.
Equal opportunities: Solent Academies Trust welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or religion. Only applications submitted on the academy’s application form will be accepted. Solent Academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
HR Advisor in Portsmouth employer: Dove House School
Solent Academies Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from tailored training opportunities and a culture that prioritises wellbeing and relational practices. Located in Portsmouth, the Trust offers competitive salaries, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to equity and social inclusion, making it a rewarding place to grow your career while positively impacting the lives of children and young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Advisor in Portsmouth
✨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 Dove House School!
✨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 Dove House School.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Advisor in Portsmouth
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 Dove House School. 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 Dove House School 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 Dove House School. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Dove House School'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 Dove House School
✨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 Dove House School.
✨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 Dove House School 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 Dove House School and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
