At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR administration for East Sussex schools and maintain accurate payroll records.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to enhancing HR services in local schools.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, diverse benefits, and full training provided.
- Why this job: Kickstart your HR career in a positive environment with opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: No prior HR experience needed; just bring enthusiasm and attention to detail.
- Other info: Interviews conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams within two weeks of application.
Are you looking to start your career in HR? We have an exciting opportunity for an HR Assistant within the Schools Team who support employees based in East Sussex schools with their HR administration. We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic, well-motivated person who is positive, flexible and well-organised with a ‘can do’ approach.
Working as part of a busy and supportive team you will be responsible for maintaining accurate records for staff on our payroll system. You will be the initial contact for queries from a range of schools based staff and will be liaising with other colleagues in the ESCC Employee Services and HR functions. Previous experience of working in an HR environment is not required as full training will be provided. The team works in a hybrid style and mixes office attendance with working from home.
We are looking for candidates who:
- can work with accuracy and attention to detail
- are committed to delivering good customer service
- have the ability to work effectively, calmly and often under time pressure
To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Cover Letter. We will be using your Cover Letter to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.
Interviews will be held virtually, on Microsoft Teams, within 2 weeks of the advert closing. We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
To find out more about the role, please contact Charlotte Smithson, Team Leader, Schools Team at charlotte.smithson@eastsussex.gov.uk.
HR Assistant - Schools Team employer: East Sussex County Council

Contact Detail:
East Sussex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Assistant - Schools Team
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the HR landscape, especially in educational settings. Understanding the unique challenges and requirements of HR in schools will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your customer service skills. Since you'll be the first point of contact for queries, emphasising your ability to handle inquiries with professionalism and empathy can make a strong impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for virtual interviews by ensuring you are comfortable with Microsoft Teams. Familiarise yourself with its features, and practice speaking clearly and confidently in front of the camera.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your organisational skills. Given the role's focus on maintaining accurate records, providing examples of how you've successfully managed tasks or projects in the past will demonstrate your suitability.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Assistant - Schools Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description and person specification thoroughly. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and the skills required for the HR Assistant position within the Schools Team.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the criteria outlined in the person specification. Use examples from your work/life experience, education, or personal interests to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your attention to detail, customer service skills, and ability to work under pressure in both your CV and cover letter. These are crucial for the HR Assistant role, so make them stand out.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Research the Role and Team
Before your interview, take some time to understand the HR Assistant role within the Schools Team. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description and think about how your skills align with them.
✨Prepare Your Cover Letter Insights
Since the Cover Letter is crucial for shortlisting, be ready to discuss specific examples from your life or education that demonstrate your attention to detail, customer service skills, and ability to work under pressure.
✨Practice Common HR Scenarios
Even if you don't have prior HR experience, think about how you would handle common HR scenarios. This could include dealing with queries from staff or maintaining accurate records. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Microsoft Teams
As the interview will be held virtually on Microsoft Teams, make sure you're comfortable using the platform. Test your camera and microphone beforehand, and ensure you have a quiet space to conduct the interview.