At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR functions and manage administrative tasks across three campuses.
- Company: Sherwood Foundation School, a leading special education provider in Sutton.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to exceptional SEND provision.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the lives of learners with complex needs while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Previous HR experience and strong IT skills are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 32070 - 33987 £ per year.
Sherwood Foundation School is a Foundation Special School located in the London Borough of Sutton and made up of three campuses:
- Sherwood Park Campus: This is a specialist school for learners aged 3 - 19 years who have severe, multiple and complex learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This includes learners who have highly complex access needs resulting from their physical and/or health conditions. All learners require high levels of adult support to access learning.
- Sherwood Hill Campus: This is a specialist school for autistic learners aged 3 - 19 years who have multiple and complex barriers to learning, requiring high levels of support to access education and learning around their peers. Many of our learners may also have severe learning difficulties and/or struggle to maintain a regulated state for learning.
- Sherwood Manor Campus: This is a specialist school primarily for Autistic learners aged 11 - 19 years who have moderate to severe barriers to learning. Most of our pupils can access a highly adapted formal learning environment with high levels of adult support. Some of our learners struggle to deal with the demands of an adult‑led learning environment so may need a highly individualised learning offer to meet their academic potential.
We are seeking to appoint a passionate and dedicated Human Resources (HR) Officer to join an exemplary SEND provision providing HR support across all three of the campuses. Reporting directly to the HR Manager, the HR Officer role is essential in supporting the HR department by managing various administrative tasks and ensuring the smooth operation of HR functions as well as a friendly and professional approach with all staff and visitors alike. Previous HR experience and an excellent level of IT skills are desirable; attention to detail is essential. The successful applicant will ideally have experience working in a busy office, within an educational setting.
Interview Date: Week Commencing 15 June, 2026
HR Officer (Closing date 26th May) employer: Sherwood Foundation School
Contact Detail:
Sherwood Foundation School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Officer (Closing date 26th May)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with SEND provisions. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Sherwood Foundation School. Understand their values and the specific needs of their learners. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common HR interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on showcasing your previous experience and how it relates to the unique challenges faced in a special school environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Officer (Closing date 26th May)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Officer role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in HR, especially in educational settings, and don’t forget to showcase your IT skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for working in SEND and how your skills align with the needs of Sherwood Foundation School. Keep it friendly yet professional.
Showcase Attention to Detail: Since attention to detail is essential for this role, make sure your application is free from typos and errors. Double-check everything before hitting send – we want to see that you care!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our school.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sherwood Foundation School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an HR Officer, especially in a special educational needs (SEND) context. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and requirements of the Sherwood Foundation School, as well as relevant HR policies and practices.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for working in a SEND environment. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive your interest in supporting learners with complex needs, as this will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed HR issues, particularly in busy office settings or educational environments.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's HR processes and how they support staff and students. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.