At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR operations, manage recruitment, and ensure employee wellbeing in a dynamic school environment.
- Company: Join the Dean Trust, a supportive educational charity with 11 academies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a positive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a collaborative team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your HR career.
- Qualifications: Previous HR experience and strong organisational skills required.
DEAN TRUST ARDWICK
345 Stockport Road, Ardwick, Manchester, M13 0LF
Telephone: 0161 972 2988
Website: deantrustardwick.co.uk
HR ASSISTANT FIXED TERM CONTRACT
Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Fixed term ending 31 December 2026
Pay Scale: NJC Pay Scale, Band 5 Scale Points 19-22 (£32,061 - £33,699 per annum)
Working Pattern: Full time 8am-4pm Monday-Friday (flexible options discussed, including all-year-round)
Location: Office-based at Dean Trust Ardwick. Regular travel between all current and future Trust sites required.
Join Our People Team
We are seeking a highly organised and professional Human Resources Assistant to join our HR team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced individual looking to develop their career within a supportive and dynamic educational environment.
About the Role
The successful candidate will work as an HR Assistant at Dean Trust Ardwick Secondary School, located south-east of Manchester city centre. You will be the sole HR specialist responsible for leading the operational HR function at the school; independence, initiative, and first line advice are essential.
Key responsibilities include:
- Maintenance of staff personnel data
- Recruitment & onboarding
- Payroll administration
- Attendance management
- Employee relations support
- Compliance & policy support
- Safeguarding compliance
- Employee wellbeing and records management
We expect adaptability, proactive solution-focused approach, excellent attention to detail, and ability to handle confidential matters sensitively. Positive relationships across the school are key to success. This mid-level position requires previous experience in a similar HR role.
Why Join The Dean Trust?
The Dean Trust is an educational charity established in 2012, comprising 11 academies across local authority areas. We are committed to a positive and supportive working environment where colleagues can thrive professionally and personally. You will join a collaborative team dedicated to delivering excellent outcomes for schools, staff and students.
Application Information
To apply, visit our recruitment page at careers.thedeantrust.co.uk. For any questions, call 0161 973 1179 or email katiehurst@thedeantrust.co.uk.
Equal Opportunities
We are an Equal Opportunities employer committed to ensuring inclusion, diversity and equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates, including those from under-represented groups and protected characteristics. The Dean Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All post holders are subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check.
Application Closing Date: Tuesday 7 July 2026 at 9.00 am
HR Assistant in Manchester employer: The Dean Trust Ardwick
The Dean Trust Ardwick offers a vibrant and supportive work environment where HR professionals can thrive and make a meaningful impact in the educational sector. With a commitment to employee development, flexible working options, and a focus on collaboration, this role provides an excellent opportunity for growth within a dynamic team dedicated to fostering positive outcomes for both staff and students. Located in the heart of Manchester, employees benefit from a diverse community and a strong emphasis on inclusion and equality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Assistant in Manchester
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at The Dean Trust Ardwick and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at The Dean Trust Ardwick. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Dean Trust Ardwick
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at The Dean Trust Ardwick, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that The Dean Trust Ardwick uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at The Dean Trust Ardwick.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at The Dean Trust Ardwick.
