HR Manager

Winston Way is a three-form entry primary school in Ilford, East London, catering for children from Nursery to Year 6 (3–11-year-olds) with 660 children currently on roll. Winston Way Academy is part of United Learning, a large multi-academy trust across England, who believe that everyone can strive for excellence. At Winston Way, we value our diverse community and take pride in our children and their achievements. All our staff truly believe that the students within our school can realise their aspirations whatever they may be, whether it is University or the career of their choice.

We aim to offer a broad, engaging curriculum, which not only gives our students the opportunity to study their interests but also provides them with skills that can be applied in all areas of life. We believe that using innovative, evidence-based teaching methods, and having high expectations of both students and staff are essential for this to be achieved. Our school motto is ‘behaviour, expectation and environment’, because we truly believe that these three qualities will enable us all to achieve our aims.

Winston Way Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check. We always appoint on merit, and we are open to discussing flexible working options.

Contract: Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hours a week / 46.67 weeks a year (Term Time plus two weeks)
Start date: As soon as possible

We are seeking an experienced and highly knowledgeable HR professional to lead and manage Human Resources across our East London Cluster of primary schools, including Walthamstow Primary Academy, Whittingham Primary Academy, Longshaw Primary Academy, Salisbury Manor Primary, and Winston Way Academy. We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate strong operational HR knowledge and experience with the ability to analyse, develop and apply effective HR processes and solutions. You will be organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference in education.

Working closely with the Executive Business Manager and Principals of each school, you will deliver an efficient and effective HR service, ensuring consistent implementation of policies and procedures. This is a unique opportunity to bring strong leadership and expertise in HR to help guide and strengthen our practices across the Cluster. Join a supportive and dedicated team in a role that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

We will offer you:

• Highly competitive pay above national average.
• An additional day’s paid leave awarded per annum.
• Access to an outstanding professional development programme.
• A respectful working environment.
• Supportive, friendly colleagues who are committed to each other’s professional development.
• A chance to become part of United Learning, one of the largest groups of academies in the country.
• Opportunities to work collaboratively with colleagues in each academy across the Cluster and United Learning.
• Excellent employee benefits which include a highly sought-after pension scheme with high employer contributions.
• Access to training through the Apprenticeship Levy.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

United Learning is one of the largest and most successful Trusts in the UK, dedicated to bringing out ‘the Best in Everyone.’ Our mission is to ensure that both students and staff are supported to achieve their full potential and thrive. As part of our East London Cluster, you will join a supportive and hardworking team, where individuals bring strong work ethics and a commitment to delivering excellence.

We believe in the power of teamwork and the value of shared expertise, with resources like United Hub simplifying work processes and managing workloads for an improved work-life balance. We offer unparalleled opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and training, alongside access to a nationwide network of professionals committed to excellence. United Learning rewards staff with competitive pay, career progression, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful impact on education.

Although not essential, the ideal candidate will have a background in education, but most importantly, they will possess the ability to work well under pressure and collaborate effectively across all schools in our cluster and the wider Trust.

We are looking for:

• A reliable, highly motivated, and self-driven professional with proven HR experience.
• An excellent communicator who can build positive relationships and foster teamwork, even within diverse working styles.
• Confidence and ability to support, coach, and guide colleagues in HR-related matters.
• Strong knowledge of HR best practice and a solid understanding of Employment Law.
• Experience in managing HR services across multiple sites or a comparable organisation.
• Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism.
• Strong management skills, including setting expectations and balancing conflicting priorities.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and pride in maintaining high standards of work.
• Proficiency in IT systems.
• A commitment to contributing to the review and development of HR policies and procedures.
• Resilience and adaptability to manage a dynamic and varied workload with autonomy.
• A proactive, professional approach, with a focus on continuous improvement and excellence.

Please see the job description and person specification for further detail.