At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and manage employee relations in a forward-thinking SEN school.
- Company: A specialist 11–19 SEN school in Harrow, dedicated to supporting diverse learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community with excellent transport links and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students while shaping a positive workplace culture.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or 7 qualification and extensive HR experience in education.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 65000 £ per year.
CORE PURPOSE
We are seeking a strategic, highly skilled HR Manager to lead human resources strategy, workforce planning, and operational HR delivery across our school. Working directly alongside the Headteacher, Senior Leadership Team, and Governing Body, the successful candidate will manage employee relations, drive talent acquisition, maintain absolute safeguarding compliance on the Single Central Record (SCR), and champion staff well-being across the organization.
THE SCHOOL
A specialist 11–19 SEN school located in Harrow, North West London, catering to pupils with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). The school operates with structured, trauma-informed practices managed in close alignment with senior leadership and multi-agency teams. The HR department functions as a vital strategic engine within the school, utilizing modern digital systems to manage recruitment, safer recruitment audits, staff performance management, and workforce development within a calm, supportive, and professional environment.
KEY TASKS & DAILY OPERATIONS
- Strategic HR Leadership: Develop and execute HR policies and workforce strategies aligned with the school’s vision, employment legislation, and education sector guidelines.
- Safer Recruitment & SCR Audits: Oversee end-to-end recruitment procedures, ensuring flawless compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) standards and managing the Single Central Record (SCR).
- Employee Relations & Casework: Provide expert advice and casework management on complex HR matters, including grievance, disciplinary, sickness absence, capability, and performance procedures.
- Payroll & Absence Management: Manage payroll preparation, monitor staff attendance patterns, coordinate occupational health interventions, and report key HR metrics to the Governing Body.
- Staff Well-Being & Development: Lead staff well-being initiatives, coordinate whole-school professional development frameworks, and foster a positive, high-performing workplace culture.
PROFILE REQUIREMENTS
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or Level 7 qualification (or equivalent degree in Human Resources / Business Management).
- Experience: Extensive HR generalist or HR management experience, with a proven track record in an educational setting, specialist provision, or public sector environment.
- Skills: Comprehensive knowledge of UK employment law, safer recruitment protocols, exceptional dispute resolution skills, and strong strategic leadership capabilities.
REGIONAL CONTEXT
Local Area & Community: Based in the historic North West London borough of Harrow, the school serves an ambitious and diverse suburban community. The area combines iconic heritage sites like Harrow-on-the-Hill, vibrant local high streets, expansive green spaces such as Harrow Recreation Ground and Pinner Memorial Park, and a supportive network of families.
Transport & Commuting: The school benefits from strong regional transport links, with direct road access via the A404, A41, and nearby M1 motorway corridor. Transit connectivity is exceptional, with comprehensive local bus routes and fast Underground and National Rail links via Harrow-on-the-Hill, Harrow & Wealdstone, and Rayners Lane (Metropolitan, Piccadilly, and Bakerloo lines, alongside London Overground and West Midlands Trains).
APPLICATION INTAKE
Please submit your current CV to begin the application process.
HR Manager | Specialist & Forward-Thinking SEN School | Harrow 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 | Specialist & Forward-Thinking SEN School | Harrow
✨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 | Specialist & Forward-Thinking SEN School | Harrow
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.
