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- Tasks: Lead HR operations and shape a positive school culture for staff and students.
- Company: Ipswich School, a top independent school in East Anglia with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and free lunches during term time.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a vibrant educational environment while developing your HR career.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or equivalent, with experience in HR within a medium/large organisation.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 67200 £ per year.
Ipswich School (Address: Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 3SG) has been listed as one of the top 130 schools in the country and is one of the foremost independent schools in East Anglia. Established prior to 1399 and moved to the present site in 1852, we have been regularly voted Suffolk’s top independent school in The Sunday Times Parent Power League and have circa 1000 pupils aged between 3 months and 19 years. We have a day nursery (The Lodge Day Nursery), Prep School and Senior School, located near Christchurch Park, with sports facilities located in Rushmere and at Notcutts, off Henley Road. With around 430 staff, all operations, including catering and cleaning, are managed ‘in house’, making us a large local employer of both teaching and support staff.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee employee relations casework.
- Help senior management shape the school’s culture and ensure the HR function meets staff needs.
- Oversee and manage HR operational matters: staff recruitment, right‑to‑work checks, disciplinary, grievance and capability processes.
- Handle payroll, workplace pension legislation, sickness/absence, occupational health, staff benefits, performance review, training and development.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Relevant qualification (minimum Level 5 CIPD or equivalent).
- Experience of working in a medium/large sized business, ideally in an educational environment.
- Excellent understanding of employment law, Ofsted/ISI compliance frameworks.
- Strong time‑management and communication skills.
- High levels of tact, diplomacy, empathy, patience and resilience to manage complex and emotive issues.
Hours of work, salary and benefits:
- Working Monday‑Friday, minimum 37.5 hours per week, core hours 8:00‑5:00.
- Salary up to £48,000 per annum, paid monthly in arrears.
- 30 days’ paid holiday, plus public holidays.
- Defined contribution pension scheme after 3 months, with 10% employer contribution.
- 3x death‑in‑service life cover.
- Fee remission of 50% for eligible children after probationary period.
- Free lunch during term time.
- Access to school swimming pool, fitness gym.
- Access to Smarthealth wellbeing app, cycle‑to‑work scheme.
How to Apply:
Please download the full job description from our website and apply using our application form. We cannot accept a CV in place of a fully completed application form for a role that involves working in a school environment. Completed application forms should be returned by noon on Tuesday 2 December 2025 to the Director of HR, Ipswich School, 25 Henley Road, Ipswich, IP1 3SG or email to hr@ipswich.school. Candidates shortlisted for interview will be advised as soon as possible after the closing date and interviews will be held on Monday 8 December 2025, including a competency assessment. Closing date: 12 pm, 2 December 2025. Interview date: 8 December 2025.
About the Team:
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Director of HR in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Contact Detail:
Suffolk Jobs Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of HR in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or HR field. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Ipswich School thoroughly. Understand their culture, values, and recent developments. This will help us tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to HR management. Think about how you would handle employee relations or compliance issues. We can help you refine your answers so you come across as confident and knowledgeable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of HR in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what Ipswich School is looking for in a Director of HR. This will help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Use the Application Form: Remember, we need you to fill out the application form provided on our website. Don’t send a CV instead, as it won’t be accepted. The application form is your chance to showcase your qualifications and experience in a structured way.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Highlight your key achievements and how they relate to the role of Director of HR.
Meet the Deadline: Make sure you submit your completed application by noon on 2 December 2025. Late applications won’t be considered, so set a reminder to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on employment law and the Ofsted/ISI compliance frameworks. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you understand the educational environment and can navigate the complexities of HR within it.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to handle employee relations casework and manage HR operational matters. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Cultural Fit is Key
Ipswich School values a strong culture, so think about how you can contribute to shaping it. Be ready to discuss your vision for HR in an educational setting and how you can support staff needs while promoting a positive workplace environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the school's culture, HR challenges, and future goals. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school aligns with your values and career aspirations.
