HR Consultant - Casual Contract in Chatham

About The Role

Are you an experienced HR professional looking for a varied role where you can make a real difference to schools, leaders and staff? Thinking Personnel are seeking to appoint an HR Consultant on a casual, as‑and‑when‑required basis to support the next stage of our growth. The role will provide flexible HR capacity across internal TSAT priorities and external client work, with hours offered according to service need and availability.

You will support complex employee relations casework, investigations, formal hearings, restructures, absence, capability, conduct and grievance matters. You will also provide clear, practical advice to leaders, helping them manage people matters confidently, fairly and consistently.

We are looking for a credible and confident HR professional with strong employee relations experience, sound employment law knowledge and excellent written communication skills. You will be able to work independently, manage sensitive matters professionally and advise senior leaders with confidence. Experience of working in schools, academies, multi‑academy trusts or the wider education sector would be desirable, as would experience of restructures, redundancy, TUPE or organisational change.

The role will not hold a fixed regional school caseload. Instead, you will be deployed flexibly where senior HR capacity is needed most. This may include external contract support, policy work, service improvement and project activity. The role will involve travel to TSAT offices, academies and external client sites, with Chatham expected to be a main base. There will also be significant remote working, depending on service need.

About Us

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision. We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. That’s why we invest in our people, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.

What our Trust will offer you:

• Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
• Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully‑equipped fitness suite and classes.
• Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
• TSAT Benefits Portal: A one‑stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high‑street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
• Blue Light Card: Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.

Next Steps

If you are interested in joining Thinking Personnel and supporting a growing, specialist HR service for schools and trusts, we would encourage you to apply. Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found. If you have any questions or would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact us.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates.