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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR processes and manage employee lifecycle in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: A well-established secondary school in Derby with a strong staff culture.
- Benefits: On-site parking, wellbeing programmes, and HR training opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your HR career in a supportive and dynamic educational setting.
- Qualifications: Strong administrative skills; HR experience is a plus.
- Other info: Clear career pathways in HR or wider school operations.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
A large, well-established secondary school in Derby is seeking a proactive and detail-driven HR Administrator to join its central operations team from January 2026. This role would suit someone with strong administrative skills who thrives in a supportive but fast-paced school environment.
The Role
- Working closely with the HR Manager, you will support all aspects of the employee lifecycle, including:
- Preparing job adverts and managing recruitment paperwork
- Scheduling interviews and coordinating interview days
- Processing DBS checks, references, and safeguarding documentation
- Maintaining accurate staff records and updating the school MIS
- Supporting induction, probation, and appraisal administration
- Handling day-to-day HR queries from staff
The School
This Ofsted “Good” school is known for its strong staff culture, excellent pastoral systems and professional working environment. The HR office is modern, well-organised and supported by a friendly admin team.
You Will Bring
- Strong administrative experience (HR experience desirable)
- Excellent organisation and time-management
- High-level confidentiality and professionalism
- Warm, approachable communication style
Why Apply?
- Supportive team with opportunities for HR training
- On-site parking and staff wellbeing programmes
- Clear career pathways across HR or wider school operations
A fantastic opportunity for an administrator looking to develop a long-term HR career in education.
HR Administrator – Derby, Derbyshire – January 2026 employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Administrator – Derby, Derbyshire – January 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the school or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's culture and values. We want to show that we’re not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team and the environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common HR scenarios and questions. We should be ready to demonstrate our problem-solving skills and how we handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and shows our enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Administrator – Derby, Derbyshire – January 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the HR Administrator role. Highlight your administrative skills and any relevant experience in HR, as this will show us that you’re a great fit for our supportive school environment.
Showcase Your Organisation Skills: Since this role requires excellent organisation and time-management, give us examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects in the past. We love to see how you keep things running smoothly!
Keep It Professional Yet Approachable: Your communication style matters! Use a warm and friendly tone in your application to reflect the culture of our school. We want to see that you can connect with staff while maintaining professionalism.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity in our HR team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the school’s values, culture, and recent achievements. Understanding what makes this Ofsted 'Good' school tick will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Showcase Your Admin Skills
Since the role requires strong administrative skills, be ready to discuss your previous experiences in detail. Prepare examples of how you've managed recruitment paperwork or coordinated schedules effectively. This will demonstrate your capability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for HR-Specific Questions
Expect questions related to the employee lifecycle, such as handling DBS checks or managing staff records. Brush up on HR terminology and processes so you can speak confidently about your knowledge and any relevant experience you have.
✨Exude Warmth and Professionalism
Given the importance of communication in this role, practice conveying a warm and approachable style. During the interview, make sure to engage with your interviewers, maintain eye contact, and smile. This will help you come across as a friendly and professional candidate who fits well within the school's supportive culture.
