At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and operations strategy to enhance educational outcomes across the Trust.
- Company: Join a dynamic Trust focused on delivering excellent education in Sutton.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and training provided.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through strategic leadership and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Relevant transferable skills; previous school experience not required.
The predicted salary is between 77804 - 83263 £ per year.
Start date - 1 August or soon thereafter
Salary: CAN scale 61-65 (Actual annual salary of £77,804 - £83,263).
Working hours: Core hours being between 8.30am and 4.30pm with 30 minutes for lunch.
Location: Trust wide role, based at Cheam High School and Oaks Park High School.
This is a very important post which will give the successful candidate an excellent opportunity to contribute to the work of the Trust and its schools through collaboration with the CEO, Headteachers, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Directors.
The role is varied and is line managed by the CEO. Previous work in schools is not required for those with relevant transferable skills.
The overall purpose of this role is to deliver strategic leadership across the Trust’s people strategy and operational infrastructure, ensuring exemplary HR practice, efficient operations, sustainable estates, strong governance and compliance/legal oversight.
The postholder will drive high organisational performance across all people and operational functions, enabling the Trust to deliver excellent educational outcomes.
The postholder will also perform the functions of the Trust Data Protection Officer.
The Trust is based in the London Borough of Sutton, and works across two local schools providing secondary education for roughly 3500 students.
Further information and an application form are available from the joining us/staff vacancies page on the Cheam High School and Oaks Park High School websites.
Please note that applications must be submitted on a Trust application form; CVs alone are not accepted.
Training in school systems and practices will be provided.
Application on the Trust application form to the HR Team asap and by 12 midday on Monday 1st June 2026 at the latest.
Please note that if sufficient applications are received, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
Cheam Academies Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As such, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Cheam Academies Network is an equal opportunities employer.
Trust HR & Operations Director employer: Oaks Park High School
Cheam Academies Network is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact on the educational outcomes of approximately 3500 students. With a commitment to employee growth, the Trust provides comprehensive training in school systems and practices, ensuring that all team members are well-equipped to excel in their roles. Located in the vibrant London Borough of Sutton, employees benefit from a supportive environment that values diversity and prioritises the welfare of children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trust HR & Operations Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust’s values and recent initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a mate. We can nail our responses and feel more confident when it’s our turn to shine in front of the panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through the Trust’s website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can keep an eye on any updates or new roles that pop up.
We think you need these skills to ace Trust HR & Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the role and how your skills fit in.
Use the Trust Application Form:Remember, we only accept applications through our Trust application form. So, don’t waste time on CVs! Fill out the form completely and accurately to show us you mean business.
Show Off Your Relevant Skills:Even if you haven’t worked in schools before, highlight those transferable skills! We want to see how your experience can contribute to our people strategy and operational infrastructure.
Submit Before the Deadline:Don’t leave it until the last minute! Make sure you submit your application by 12 midday on Monday 1st June 2026. Early birds get the worm, and we might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oaks Park High School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Trust's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their people strategy and operational infrastructure. This will help you demonstrate how your skills align with their goals during the interview.
✨Showcase Transferable Skills
Even if you haven't worked in schools before, highlight your relevant experience. Think about how your previous roles have equipped you with the strategic leadership and HR practices needed for this position. Be ready to share specific examples.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team dynamics, and the Trust's future plans. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way. Be honest about your experiences and what you can bring to the table. The interviewers want to see the real you and how you would fit into their culture.
