At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR and payroll functions in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join the outstanding Ripley St Thomas CE Academy team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Equal opportunities employer with a focus on community inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR and payroll with strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 28536 - 32365 £ per year.
Location: Ripley St Thomas CE Academy, Ashton Road, Lancaster, LA1 4RS (1767 on roll). Tel: 01524 64496. School website: www.ripleystthomas.com.
Ripley St Thomas is a special place to work and this is an exciting opportunity to join the school staff team in this "outstanding" (Ofsted / SIAMS) academy. We are looking for a friendly and highly organised person to assist with the HR and Payroll functions within the school.
Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining HR correspondence
- Job descriptions
- File management
- Payroll procedures including calculation of salaries
- Checking and reconciling monthly payroll
- Input of staff pay claims
The successful applicant will demonstrate a high level of professionalism and confidentiality, work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, be proficient at problem-solving and have experience in a busy HR and Payroll environment.
This is a full-time (37 hours per week) term-time only post (plus two weeks). Salary range: £28,536–£32,365.
Qualifications:
- Proficiency in HR and payroll procedures
- Strong organisational skills
- Experience in a busy HR and payroll environment
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Equal Opportunities statement: An Equal Opportunities Employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community. The post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). Successful candidates will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service for a 'disclosure'; information provided will be dealt with in a confidential manner in accordance with the DBS's Code of Practice.
Application Process: Please apply via the application form attached. CVs are not accepted. Closing date: midday on Monday 8 June 2026.
HR & Payroll Specialist - Term-Time, 37hrs/wk employer: Lancashire County Council
Ripley St Thomas CE Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow professionally. Located in the vibrant city of Lancaster, this 'outstanding' academy provides term-time employment with competitive salaries and opportunities for personal development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR & Payroll Specialist - Term-Time, 37hrs/wk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Ripley St Thomas and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common HR and payroll questions. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to get comfortable with your answers. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills during the interview. Bring examples of how you've managed HR tasks in the past, especially under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Ripley St Thomas.
We think you need these skills to ace HR & Payroll Specialist - Term-Time, 37hrs/wk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what we're looking for in an HR & Payroll Specialist, so highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the role.
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:Since this role requires strong organisational skills, don’t be shy about showcasing them! Use examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects, especially in a busy HR and payroll environment.
Keep It Professional and Confidential:Remember, professionalism is key in HR. When writing your application, maintain a formal tone and ensure that any sensitive information is handled with care. This shows us that you can uphold confidentiality, which is crucial in this role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website using the application form provided. CVs aren’t accepted, so make sure you fill out the form completely and accurately. This is your chance to shine, so take your time and make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on HR and payroll procedures before the interview. Familiarise yourself with common practices, especially those relevant to schools. This will show that you're not just a good fit for the role but also genuinely interested in the specifics of working in an educational environment.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires strong organisational skills, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to discuss how you prioritised your workload and met tight deadlines, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive under pressure.
✨Emphasise Confidentiality and Professionalism
Given the sensitive nature of HR and payroll work, it's crucial to convey your understanding of confidentiality. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've handled sensitive information responsibly, highlighting your professionalism and integrity in such situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's culture, the HR team's dynamics, or specific challenges they face. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
