At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage HR, payroll, and data systems in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Be part of the Sir Robert Woodard Academy, one of the happiest schools in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, wellness programmes, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive community where 95% of staff recommend us as an employer.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while supporting staff and students in a collaborative culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll processing and strong knowledge of Management Information Systems required.
The predicted salary is between 31015 - 31015 £ per year.
Are you an HR & Payroll specialist with a passion for MIS software? This is a permanent, full-time position (37 hours per week: Monday to Friday, 8 hours per day including a daily 30 min unpaid break) with an actual starting salary of £31,015 p.a. Annual leave includes 28 days plus public holidays.
The Sir Robert Woodard Academy is a thriving 11–18 Academy committed to ensuring that every student is known and nurtured. We are seeking a proactive, personable and technical HR, Systems and Payroll Officer to join our People and Payroll team. Reporting to the People (HR) Manager, this role is essential for maintaining smooth staff lifecycle administration, accurate employee data systems, and seamless payroll delivery across the Academy.
Key Responsibilities:
- HR Lifecycle Administration: Support the People (HR) Manager in providing excellent first-line HR and payroll advice to staff, manage online recruitment advertising and applicant tracking systems, support interviews, issue onboarding and probation paperwork, and maintain confidential personnel files in line with data protection principles.
- Operational Excellence: Proven ability to manage high-volume workflows by effectively prioritising tasks and adapting to shifting daily demands.
- Data Protection & Confidentiality: Operate beyond reproach when handling sensitive employee and financial data, exercising a discreet, tactful approach at all times and maintaining a robust working understanding of data protection principles, GDPR compliance, and statutory privacy regulations.
- Payroll Operations & Reconciliation: Assist the Finance and Operations Manager with day-to-day payroll administration, maintaining up-to-date employee details, processing monthly payroll changes, and deputising for the Finance and Payroll Manager in the monthly reconciliation of payroll.
- MIS Management & User Support: Maintain accurate staff records across all academy databases, manage staff CPD and performance management administration, and provide software troubleshooting advice for academy staff.
- Statutory Returns & Data Reporting: Collate and analyse accurate staff data for statutory submissions and internal management reporting.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in a vibrant educational community. Only candidates who meet the essential criteria for the role will be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
The Person: The successful candidate will demonstrate comprehensive experience in processing payroll and undertaking payroll reconciliations, possess a strong working knowledge of MIS and databases, and have excellent ICT and Office skills, including advanced Excel capabilities. They should be an effective communicator with well-developed interpersonal skills and hold a dedicated commitment to safeguarding and confidentiality.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding: The Academy and West Sussex County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful candidates will be subject to an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service check along with other relevant employment checks.
Our Commitment to Equal Opportunities: The Academy is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from suitably qualified individuals from all sections of the community.
Closing date: 10/11/26. Interviews: 17/11/26.
HR, Systems & Payroll Officer in Lancing employer: Schools
Schools provide a supportive and collaborative work environment, emphasizing professional development and staff training. With leadership roles offering competitive salaries, employees can contribute to meaningful educational outcomes while ensuring the welfare of children and young people. The commitment to safeguarding and high standards makes Schools an attractive employer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR, Systems & Payroll Officer in Lancing
✨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 Schools!
✨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 Schools.
We think you need these skills to ace HR, Systems & Payroll Officer in Lancing
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 Schools. 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 Schools 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 Schools. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Schools'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 Schools
✨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 Schools.
✨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 Schools 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 Schools and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
