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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to shape our people and culture strategy.
- Company: Join a fun, forward-thinking school committed to academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunch during term time, and comprehensive CPD programme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on staff wellbeing and foster an inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR with strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
St John's School is seeking to appoint an experienced and forward-thinking HR leader to shape and drive our people and culture strategy. This pivotal role requires an individual who can inspire and motivate teams, demonstrate compassion and communicate effectively at all levels. The successful candidate will be adaptable and proactive, remain calm under pressure, and be able to manage competing priorities while working to tight deadlines.
In addition, the post holder will play a key role in driving organisational development, promoting staff wellbeing, and fostering an inclusive culture where colleagues feel valued and supported. They will provide strategic guidance to senior leaders on workforce planning, employee relations, performance management, and talent development. The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of best practice HR, alongside the confidence to challenge, influence, and shape change in a dynamic school environment.
We offer a comprehensive induction and CPD programme for all levels of staff, competitive remuneration package, free lunch during term time and well-equipped facilities. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a fun, forward-thinking School which is committed to academic excellence and continual development of staff.
Closing date: 12 noon, Thursday 29 January 2026
Interviews will take place on:
- First round – Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 February 2026
- Second round (for shortlisted candidates) – Friday 6 February 2026
St John’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The School may carry out online searches on shortlisted candidates and all applications will be required to provide details of their online profile, including social media accounts, as part of their application. The job holder should be aware of their responsibilities for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons who they may come into contact with whilst at St John’s. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the School is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
A school where we can all be ourselves #EqualityatStJohn’s
Head of People & Culture in Leatherhead employer: St John's School, Leatherhead
Contact Detail:
St John's School, Leatherhead Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People & Culture in Leatherhead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of People & Culture role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the school’s culture and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive environment. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects your passion for people and culture. Engage with relevant content and connect with others in the HR field to boost your visibility.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It shows you’re serious about the role and gives us a chance to see your application in the best light. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on any new opportunities that pop up!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People & Culture in Leatherhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for people and culture shine through. We want to see how you can inspire and motivate teams, so share examples of how you've done this in the past!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of People & Culture role. Highlight your experience with workforce planning and employee relations, as these are key areas for us.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and achievements at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at St John’s School.
How to prepare for a job interview at St John's School, Leatherhead
✨Know Your People & Culture Strategy
Before the interview, dive deep into St John's School's current people and culture initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to shaping a vibrant workplace culture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to inspire and motivate teams. Think about times when you've successfully managed competing priorities or driven organisational development, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Communicate with Compassion
Since effective communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and empathetically. Consider how you would approach sensitive topics like employee relations or staff wellbeing, and be prepared to demonstrate your compassionate side.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your adaptability and problem-solving skills under pressure. Prepare for hypothetical scenarios related to HR challenges in a school environment, and think through your responses to showcase your strategic thinking and calmness in tough situations.
