At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the people function, enhancing HR services and school culture.
- Company: George Watson’s College, a values-led independent school in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Join a supportive community with a focus on employee wellbeing and development.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a respected educational institution.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on shaping a positive school culture and employee experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR leadership, preferably in a unionised environment.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced people leader looking for a senior role within a values-led organisation where culture, people and educational excellence go hand in hand? George Watson’s College is seeking a brilliant Head of People to lead and develop the school’s people function, ensuring exceptional delivery of HR services while helping to shape the culture, capability and employee experience of one of Scotland’s leading independent schools.
Reporting to the Chief Finance and Operations Officer, the Head of People will play a critical role in developing and delivering the school’s people strategy, supporting organisational development, strengthening employee engagement and wellbeing, and ensuring the school continues to attract, develop and retain outstanding colleagues.
Leading a dedicated team, you will provide expert advice and support across the full range of people matters, including:
- Employee relations
- Organisational change
- Learning and development
- Workforce planning
- Payroll
- HR systems and compliance
You will also act as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, helping to shape strategic decision-making while ensuring the school remains legally compliant and operationally effective. This role suits a well-rounded professional, ideally with experience of working within a unionised environment. You may come from outside the education sector; what matters most is your ability to combine professional credibility, commercial awareness and strong leadership with a genuine commitment to people in order to drive positive change.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected and ambitious organisation at an important stage in its development, in a role that is both highly visible and influential. In return, you will become part of a supportive and purpose-driven community where people are recognised as the foundation of success.
To apply for the post, please send a tailored CV and covering letter. The covering letter should be no more than two pages of A4 and should summarise your relevant experience, leadership achievements and motivation for applying. If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role, please contact LHH.
Closing Date for Applications - Midnight Sunday 05 July.
George Watson's College sits in the heart of Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh, providing a world-class education for children and young people from Preschool to Senior 6. We encourage our pupils to develop a love of learning through an inspiring curriculum and an extensive and inclusive enrichment programme, which are underpinned by the four values we live by: aim high, be kind, join in and respect all.
Our school is a place where pupils have the freedom to thrive, succeed, explore, perform, and grow, giving them the opportunity to discover their own limitless potential. Preschool, junior and senior pupils all learn and play on the same 52-acre campus, where our sports facilities, music school, art department, technology building and drama studios are within walking distance.
We offer our pupils one of the widest extra-curricular programmes you will find anywhere, plus the opportunity to travel internationally during their time with us, and a broad range of learning experiences outside the classroom. Digital technology supports and enhances learning, with every pupil encouraged to use their device where it adds real value to developing skills and critical thinking.
Our school has an enviable reputation for the breadth of opportunities pupils have to get active, with around 25 different sports available to both girls and boys. Participation, excellence, professionalism and equality are the four cornerstones of our physical education and sport department here at Watson's.
When it comes to music and drama, our pupils are given the opportunity to co-produce stunning shows, delivering memorable performances that live long beyond school days. Most importantly, the wellbeing of our pupils matters to us more than anything else. There are various ways we support pupils to proactively manage their mental health, while a range of peer-led programmes has created a culture in which we can all play our part.
All this means that when the sun shines we celebrate the happy moments, and when it doesn't we're there to protect and support, just as our motto says: ex corde caritas - love from the heart.
Head of People employer: Teacheroo
George Watson’s College is an exceptional employer that prioritises a values-led culture, fostering an environment where educational excellence and employee wellbeing are at the forefront. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the school offers a supportive community that encourages professional growth and development, ensuring that every team member is recognised as a vital contributor to the school's success. With a commitment to attracting and retaining outstanding colleagues, this role provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of the organisation while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance in a vibrant city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People
✨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 Teacheroo!
✨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 Teacheroo.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People
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 Teacheroo. 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 Teacheroo 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 Teacheroo. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Teacheroo'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 Teacheroo
✨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 Teacheroo.
✨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 Teacheroo 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 Teacheroo and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
