At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR functions, manage recruitment, and support staff wellbeing in a thriving primary school.
- Company: A high-performing primary school in Hackney with a strong reputation for staff development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, local government pension, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a positive working culture focused on employee empowerment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on staff culture and organisational development in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management or senior HR roles, with strong knowledge of employment law.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 58000 £ per year.
An exceptional primary school in Hackney is seeking an experienced HR Manager to join its senior support team on a full-time, permanent basis from September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of HR across a thriving school with a strong reputation for staff development, collaboration, and educational excellence. Working closely with the Headteacher and School Business Manager, you'll help shape the school's people strategy while ensuring outstanding operational HR support across all areas of the organisation.
The Role
As HR Manager, you'll lead the school's HR function, providing professional advice and guidance to leaders while ensuring HR processes remain efficient, compliant, and employee-focused.
Responsibilities include:
- Leading recruitment and onboarding across teaching and support staff
- Managing employee relations, absence management, and performance processes
- Providing advice on employment legislation and HR best practice
- Supporting safer recruitment and safeguarding procedures
- Maintaining HR systems and personnel records
- Overseeing contracts, policy development, and compliance
- Producing workforce reports and supporting strategic workforce planning
- Promoting staff wellbeing, engagement, and professional development initiatives
About the School
This high-performing primary school has built an excellent reputation for academic success and staff retention. Leaders place significant importance on creating a positive working culture where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to develop professionally.
The Successful Candidate
Applications are welcomed from experienced HR Managers, Senior HR Advisors, HR Business Partners, or experienced HR professionals looking to step into a leadership role within education. You'll possess excellent employment law knowledge, strong organisational skills, and the confidence to build trusted relationships with leaders across the school. References from your current (or most recent) employer and a previous employer will be required before interview.
Salary & Benefits
- £48,000–£58,000 per annum
- Full-time, permanent
- September 2026 start
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Hybrid working opportunities where operationally appropriate
- Excellent CPD and leadership development
- Employee wellbeing programme
The school is interviewing as soon as suitable applications are received, so early applications are encouraged. If you're looking for a rewarding HR leadership role within a successful primary school where you'll have genuine influence on staff culture and organisational development, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your CV today for immediate consideration.
HR Manager | Join a High-Performing Primary School | Hackney in London 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 | Join a High-Performing Primary School | Hackney in London
✨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 | Join a High-Performing Primary School | Hackney in London
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.
