At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations and shape the culture of a thriving primary school.
- Company: A leading primary school in Barnet with a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment with excellent professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on staff engagement and organisational success.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management and knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
A leading primary school in Barnet is seeking an experienced HR Manager to join its senior leadership support team on a full-time, permanent basis from September 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a high-performing school that places great importance on its people. As HR Manager, you'll play a central role in shaping the school's culture, supporting staff wellbeing, and ensuring best practice across all aspects of Human Resources. Working closely with the Headteacher and School Business Manager, you'll have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions while leading a modern, efficient HR function.
The Role
- You'll lead all operational and strategic HR activities, ensuring the school attracts, develops, and retains exceptional staff while maintaining full compliance with employment legislation.
- Key responsibilities include:
- Managing end-to-end recruitment and safer recruitment processes
- Advising senior leaders on employee relations, absence management, and performance matters
- Leading disciplinary, grievance, capability, and flexible working processes
- Reviewing and implementing HR policies in line with current legislation
- Managing contracts, payroll changes, and employee records
- Overseeing HR systems, reporting, and workforce planning
- Supporting staff wellbeing initiatives and professional development programmes
- Building positive relationships with leaders across the school to promote an outstanding employee experience
About the School
This successful primary school has earned a reputation for academic excellence, strong leadership, and an inclusive working culture. Staff benefit from a collaborative environment where innovation is encouraged, professional development is prioritised, and every member of the team is recognised for the contribution they make to the school's continued success.
The Successful Candidate
Applications are welcomed from experienced HR Managers, HR Business Partners, Senior HR Advisors, or experienced HR professionals looking to progress into a strategic leadership role within education. The successful candidate will have excellent knowledge of UK employment law, outstanding organisational skills, and experience managing complex HR casework. You'll be a confident communicator who can provide trusted advice while balancing operational priorities with long-term strategic objectives.
As part of the school's safer recruitment procedures, references from your current (or most recent) employer and a previous employer will be required before an interview can be arranged.
Salary & Benefits
- £50,000–£60,000 per annum
- Full-time, permanent position
- September 2026 start
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Excellent CPD and leadership development opportunities
- Employee wellbeing programme
- Flexible working arrangements where operationally appropriate
- Free on-site parking
The school is interviewing as soon as suitable applications are received, so early applications are encouraged. If you're looking for an opportunity to lead HR within a thriving primary school where you'll have a genuine influence on culture, staff engagement, and organisational success, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your CV today for immediate consideration.
HR Manager | Shape the Future of a Leading Primary School | Barnet employer: Marchant Recruitment
Marchant Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As a Nursery Teacher in Hillingdon, you will benefit from a collaborative team environment, opportunities for continuous development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on young learners' lives in an Outstanding primary school setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Manager | Shape the Future of a Leading Primary School | Barnet
✨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 Marchant Recruitment!
✨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 Marchant Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Manager | Shape the Future of a Leading Primary School | Barnet
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 Marchant Recruitment. 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 Marchant Recruitment 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 Marchant Recruitment. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Marchant Recruitment'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 Marchant Recruitment
✨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 Marchant Recruitment.
✨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 Marchant Recruitment 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 Marchant Recruitment and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
