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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic HR team and enhance staff wellbeing in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: A prestigious independent school in Surrey with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership development, CPD, pension, and staff perks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while advancing your HR career.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or above and proven HR management experience required.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A leading independent school in Surrey is looking to appoint an experienced HR Manager to join the Operations Directorate from January 2026.
Key Details
- Role: HR Manager
- School: Independent (4–18), Surrey
- Start: January 2026
- Contract: Permanent, full-time
- Suitability: Strong HR leadership background required
About the School
This highly regarded school offers outstanding academics, extensive extracurriculars, and a warm, aspirational culture. With over 220 staff, the HR Manager plays a vital part in strategic planning, compliance, and staff wellbeing. The school offers excellent facilities, a strong professional culture, and continuous CPD.
The Role – What You'll Do
- Lead a small HR team delivering safe, efficient, and compliant HR operations.
- Manage recruitment, onboarding, and contractual processes.
- Oversee employee relations, disciplinary procedures, and performance systems.
- Maintain HRIS, payroll accuracy, and key reporting metrics.
- Advise SLT on HR strategy, staffing, and organisational development.
- Drive wellbeing initiatives and staff engagement programmes.
Person Specification
- CIPD Level 5 or above; Level 7 desirable.
- Proven experience in HR management, ideally within education.
- Strong knowledge of safer recruitment and compliance frameworks.
- Exceptional communication, judgement, and organisational skills.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive independent school package
- Leadership development, CPD, pension, staff perks
Safeguarding
All posts require enhanced DBS and full vetting procedures.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and brief cover note quoting HR Manager – Surrey.
HR Manager – Independent School – Surrey – January 2026 Start in Horley employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Manager – Independent School – Surrey – January 2026 Start in Horley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in HR. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s culture and values. Tailor your responses to show how your HR leadership aligns with their mission. We want to see that you’re not just a fit on paper but also in spirit!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise in compliance and wellbeing initiatives during discussions. Bring examples of how you've successfully implemented these in previous roles. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Manager – Independent School – Surrey – January 2026 Start in Horley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in HR management, especially within education, and showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can contribute to our warm and aspirational culture!
Craft a Compelling Cover Note: Your cover note should be brief but impactful. Use it to express your passion for HR and how your background aligns with our school's values. Remember, this is your chance to make a great first impression, so let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance is key in this role, make sure to mention your understanding of safer recruitment practices and any relevant frameworks you've worked with. We’re looking for someone who can ensure our HR operations are safe and efficient!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your HR knowledge, especially around compliance and recruitment processes. Familiarise yourself with the school's values and culture, as this will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an HR Manager, you'll be leading a team, so be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, particularly in an educational setting.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific HR situations, like employee relations or performance management. Think through some scenarios beforehand and outline your approach to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Wellbeing Initiatives
Since the role involves driving wellbeing initiatives, come prepared with ideas or examples of successful programmes you've implemented before. This shows your proactive approach and commitment to staff engagement, which is key for this position.
