At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives and support staff wellbeing in a vibrant primary school.
- Company: A high-performing primary school in Islington with a positive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension, flexible working, and professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on staff wellbeing and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee experience and shape the future of education.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management and strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
A successful primary school in Islington is looking to appoint an experienced HR Manager to join its leadership support team on a full-time, permanent basis from September 2026. This is an outstanding opportunity for an HR professional who is passionate about creating exceptional workplaces. The school has a strong reputation for staff wellbeing, professional development, and employee retention, and is looking for an HR leader who can continue to build on this success.
Working closely with the Headteacher and School Business Manager, you'll play a key role in shaping the school's people strategy while delivering an outstanding HR service across the organisation.
The Role
As HR Manager, you'll oversee the full employee lifecycle, providing strategic and operational HR support while ensuring compliance with employment legislation and safeguarding requirements. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading recruitment campaigns and overseeing all safer recruitment processes
- Providing expert guidance on employee relations, absence management, disciplinary, grievance, and capability matters
- Managing contracts, personnel records, payroll changes, and HR systems
- Reviewing and implementing HR policies and procedures in line with current legislation
- Producing workforce reports and supporting strategic staffing plans
- Leading initiatives focused on staff wellbeing, engagement, and retention
- Advising senior leaders on complex HR matters and organisational change
- Identifying opportunities to improve HR processes and deliver an outstanding employee experience
About the School
This high-performing primary school is recognised for its supportive leadership, ambitious vision, and positive working culture. The school invests heavily in its staff, offering excellent opportunities for professional development and recognising that a happy, motivated workforce is essential to delivering outstanding outcomes for pupils.
The Successful Candidate
Applications are welcomed from experienced HR Managers, HR Business Partners, Senior HR Advisors, or experienced HR professionals looking to take the next step in their career within education. You'll have excellent knowledge of UK employment law, experience leading complex HR casework, and the ability to build trusted relationships across all levels of the organisation. You'll be proactive, solutions-focused, and committed to promoting a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
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 Assistance Programme
Flexible working opportunities where operationally appropriate
Supportive senior leadership team with a strong focus on staff wellbeing
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 where you'll influence strategy, champion employee wellbeing, and help shape the future of a thriving primary school, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your CV today for immediate consideration.
HR Manager | Lead HR at a Flagship Primary School | Islington 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 | Lead HR at a Flagship Primary School | Islington 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 | Lead HR at a Flagship Primary School | Islington 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.
