People Advisor in London

About the role

Job Purpose: We are looking for a proactive and experienced People Advisor to join our Trust People Team. This role will involve supporting managers and employees across the college, guiding them through the employee lifecycle, from recruitment and selection to performance management and employee relations. You will actively manage HR/ER cases, provide coaching to managers, and ensure the consistent application of college policies in line with current employment legislation. Travel will be required across schools in Bromley, Bexley, Lambeth, Surrey and Sussex. The position will be based in our Orpington Office.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide HR advice and guidance on a variety of employee relations matters, including grievances, disciplinaries, and absence management.
• Maintain accurate HR/ER case records and ensure progress tracking within the HR team.
• Support organisational change initiatives, including restructures, TUPE transfers, and performance management processes.
• Drive college-wide recruitment initiatives and participate in recruitment activities, from candidate selection to onboarding.
• Contribute to employee engagement, wellbeing, and safety, utilising resources such as the Occupational Health provider and Employee Assistance Program.
• Assist in developing HR policies and ensure compliance with HR best practices.

About You: The ideal candidate will be approachable, professional, and possess strong communication and organisational skills. You should have a good understanding of employment legislation, experience in an HR role, and be comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment. Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office and experience with HR software are essential, along with excellent interpersonal skills to engage effectively with colleagues and staff at all levels.

Equal Opportunities: London South East Academies Trust is fully committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer and to creating a diverse, inclusive and respectful working environment, free from discrimination and harassment. We welcome and encourage applications from all, regardless of race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, parental status or marital or partnership status.

Recruitment and Background Checks: As the Trust supports children and vulnerable adults, all roles are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and, where relevant, a Children’s and/or Adult’s Barred List check. Any offer of employment may be withdrawn if these checks are unsatisfactory. Self-disclosure is required as part of the recruitment process, and failure to make a full disclosure or to provide sight of a DBS certificate is likely to result in withdrawal of an offer. The Trust’s DBS policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders is available on request. All appointments are also subject to verification of the right to work in the UK, in line with Home Office requirements. Original documentation will be required prior to commencement of employment.