At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR functions, manage recruitment, and ensure compliance with statutory regulations.
- Company: Join the outstanding Elthorne Park High School in Ealing, London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic educational setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a thriving school community while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management and a proactive approach to compliance.
The predicted salary is between 44655 - 46545 £ per year.
Location: Ealing, London
Salary: Scale 11 - actual salary £44,655 - £46,545pa (pay award pending)
Contract: Full-time, Term-time (39 weeks plus 1 week, 35 hours per week)
We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date so early applications are encouraged.
About Elthorne Park High School
Elthorne Park High School is a successful, significantly oversubscribed 11‑18 mixed school in Ealing with over 1,500 students, including 380 in the Sixth Form. In March 2025, Ofsted judged our school to be Outstanding. We have a clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
The Role
We are seeking a meticulous and proactive HR Lead to manage our school's human resources function. Reporting directly to the Headteacher, you will act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, manage payroll accuracy, oversee staff recruitment and the appraisal of non‑teaching staff and line‑manage our Office Manager.
- Maintain the SCR with absolute accuracy to guarantee total statutory compliance.
- Oversee all recruitment processes including advertisements, shortlisting and interview day schedules.
- Execute pre‑employment checks such as DBS, right to work, references and qualifications.
- Ensure full compliance with statutory safer recruitment procedures.
- Manage payroll data and collaborate with the School Business Manager (SBM) to verify salary payments.
- Record all staff variations including salary changes, allowances, timesheets and annual leave.
- Administer timesheets for peripatetic music tutors, exams invigilators and claims for other occasional and casual staff.
- Resolve HR queries involving contracts, leave, salaries, pensions, hours and flexible working.
- Onboard new starters and issue all necessary employment documentation.
A primary focus of this role is ensuring absolute compliance with statutory safer recruitment and Single Central Record (SCR) regulations.
How To Apply
For further information and an application form, please visit our website at www.ephs.ealing.sch.uk. Please forward your completed application forms to Ms Wendy Henderson, the Headteacher’s PA, at whenderson@ephs.ealing.sch.uk.
Start Date: July or September 2026
Closing Date: Midday Friday 26th June
HR Lead employer: Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing)
Elthorne Park High School is an outstanding employer located in the vibrant community of Ealing, London, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment. As an HR Lead, you will play a crucial role in shaping our school's human resources function while benefiting from a commitment to professional development and employee well-being. With a focus on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, we provide a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the education sector in a thriving school setting.
Contact Details:
Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Elthorne Park High School, its values, and its culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider info about the school and might even give you a heads-up about the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common HR interview questions and scenarios. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about the role. Don’t wait until the last minute; early applications are encouraged!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the HR Lead role. We want to see how you can contribute to our school, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the position.
Show Your Passion for Education:Let us know why you’re excited about working in a school environment. Share your enthusiasm for supporting students and staff alike, as this role is all about fostering a positive atmosphere at Elthorne Park High School.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. We’re looking for attention to detail, especially in an HR role. And remember, apply through our website to ensure your application gets to us smoothly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in HR policies and procedures, especially around safer recruitment and compliance. Brush up on the latest legislation and best practices, as this will show your commitment to safeguarding and your proactive approach.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your skills in managing payroll, recruitment processes, and resolving HR queries. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the school’s culture, HR challenges they face, and how you can contribute to their success. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Be Personable and Professional
As an HR Lead, you’ll be interacting with various stakeholders. Make sure to convey warmth and professionalism during the interview. A friendly demeanour can go a long way in making a positive impression on the interview panel.
