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- Tasks: Lead HR strategy, empower staff, and shape organisational culture in education.
- Company: Vale Federation of Schools, committed to values-driven leadership.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional development, and impactful role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and support staff wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Senior HR experience, knowledge of employment law, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant influence and career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Vale Federation of Schools is seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking Head of People to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the strategic development of our most important asset – our staff. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced HR leader to influence organisational culture, strengthen workforce development, and ensure our Federation remains a place where colleagues feel valued, supported, and inspired to deliver the very best for our pupils. If you are passionate about people, thrive in a dynamic environment, and want to make a meaningful difference in education, we would be delighted to hear from you.
About the Role
- Provide strategic leadership across all HR functions, ensuring best practice and legal compliance
- Advise senior leaders on employment law, HR policy, organisational change, and workforce planning
- Lead on recruitment, safer recruitment, induction, and talent development
- Oversee HR systems, data accuracy, reporting, and continuous improvement
- Manage and develop the HR and Payroll teams
- Lead on staff wellbeing, engagement, and absence management strategies
- Support performance management, CPD planning, and staff development pathways
- Work closely with unions and professional associations to maintain positive relationships
- Lead on organisational change processes including restructuring, redundancy, and TUPE
- Report to and advise the Governing Board on all HR and employment matters
- Ensure HR policies, procedures, and documentation remain current, compliant, and effective
This is a strategic role with significant influence across the Federation, requiring a leader who can combine professional expertise with emotional intelligence, clarity, and a people-centred approach.
About You
We are looking for a confident, knowledgeable, and values-driven HR professional who brings:
Essential Experience & Skills- Senior-level experience within HR
- Strong understanding of employment law, safer recruitment, and HR best practice
- Experience working in the education sector
- Line management experience
- Experience developing and operating HR systems
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
- High levels of accuracy, attention to detail, and professional integrity
- Ability to work under pressure, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365
- CIPD Level 5 in Human Resources
- GCSEs in English and Maths
- Full UK Driving Licence
- Knowledge of Access Education People
- Knowledge of Arbor MIS
- Mental Health First Aider training
- Business acumen
- A commitment to the Federation’s ethos and values
- Integrity, honesty, loyalty, and fairness
- Emotional intelligence and empathy
- Resilience, adaptability, and a positive approach to change
- A collaborative mindset and a passion for supporting others to thrive
Why Join The Vale Federation?
- A supportive, ambitious, and values driven leadership culture
- The opportunity to shape the Federation’s people strategy and staff experience
- A varied and rewarding role with real strategic impact
- Strong commitment to professional development and CPD
- A chance to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people
Head of People employer: The Vale Federation
Contact Detail:
The Vale Federation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People
✨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 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 organisation thoroughly. Understand their culture, values, and current HR challenges. This will help us tailor our responses and show that we're genuinely interested in making a difference at The Vale Federation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine our answers and boost our confidence. Focus on showcasing our experience in HR and how we can contribute to the Federation's people strategy.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email reiterating our enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows that we’re proactive and genuinely interested in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of People role. Highlight your HR experience, especially in the education sector, and show how your values align with ours at The Vale Federation.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in employment law, recruitment, and staff development can make a real difference. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact in previous roles.
Be Authentic: We want to see the real you! Share your passion for people and education in your application. Let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism—this is key for us.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. This ensures your application reaches us quickly and allows you to keep track of your progress throughout the hiring process.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Vale Federation
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on employment law and HR best practices, especially as they relate to the education sector. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by schools and how your experience can address them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership skills and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think about times when you've influenced organisational culture or led significant change, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with Their Values
The Vale Federation is all about values-driven leadership. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their ethos. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the organisation.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current HR challenges, staff wellbeing initiatives, or how they envision the future of their people strategy. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested.
