At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and develop our people strategy to enhance employee experience.
- Company: Join Leigh Academies Trust, a leading multi-academy trust in the South East.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a progressive team with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on thousands of colleagues in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR and a passion for people development.
The predicted salary is between 41348 - 53178 £ per year.
Company: Leigh Academies Trust
Salary: £41,348 - £53,178
Hours: Full-time
Location: Rochester, ME2 2SX
Working pattern: On-site
Job type: Permanent
Posting date: 17 Aug 2026
Closing date: 31 Aug 2026
Who we are:
Leigh Academies Trust (LAT) is one of the South East's largest and most progressive multi-academy trusts, encompassing 33 academies across Kent, Medway, and South East London, spanning primary, secondary, grammar, all-through and specialist provision. We are ambitious, values-led and committed to our people.
Our People Services team is at the centre of that ambition. We are guided by Be Leigh, our cultural framework that defines what every colleague should experience at the Trust, and we are now developing our next People Strategy, which will shape how we recruit, develop and retain our people through to 2030. This is a team with a clear sense of direction and senior leadership support to deliver it.
Why join us:
This isn't a role where you will stand still. You will gain a varied, genuinely challenging portfolio with real autonomy in a massive, complex organisation. You are joining us at a pivotal moment as we build a world-class people function that directly impacts thousands of colleagues.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary from £41,348 - £53,178 per annum, based on experience
- Generous annual leave (25 days, increasing to 30 after 5 years' service + bank holidays)
- Hybrid working
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Enhanced Maternity Pay
- Free on-site parking
- Training and development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme & 24/7 GP service
People Partner (HR) in Strood employer: LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST
Leigh Academies Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its staff and students alike. With a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, employees benefit from a supportive work culture, opportunities for professional development, and a focus on collaboration with families and pastoral teams. Located in Rainham, this role not only offers competitive pay but also the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of pupils, ensuring they thrive in a setting of high expectations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Partner (HR) in Strood
✨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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST!
✨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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST.
We think you need these skills to ace People Partner (HR) in Strood
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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST. 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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST 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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST'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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST
✨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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST.
✨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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST 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 LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
