At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage HR functions, documents, and processes in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Meridian Trust, a leading academy trust focused on community and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, mental health support, and more.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in HR while making a positive impact in education.
- Qualifications: Strong admin skills, enthusiasm for learning, and good communication abilities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a supportive team and excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 12572 - 12572 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a HR Officer at Woodston. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining and managing all HR related functions, documents, and processes, to engage in the smooth running of general school management, communication, and organisation.
The Opportunity:
- Process payroll services, contracts, new starters, variations, and leavers in liaison with the Trust’s payroll provider.
- Maintain and manage sickness and staff absence reporting by effective monitoring and recording. Breaches or concerns should be raised with the Headteacher and the HR HUB Senior HR Advisor on a regular basis.
- Organise and maintain all required safeguarding checks, paperwork and procedures for staff and volunteers, and risk assessments where needed.
- Complete and submit the annual workforce census, ensuring accurate recording of staff and their roles, teacher qualifications, staff ethnicity and all sickness absences.
The ideal candidate:
- Strong and demonstrable administration skills.
- Willingness to undergo further training and development.
- Positive and enthusiastic approach.
- Good educational background with GCSE or equivalent in the English Language.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Knowledge of working with IT particularly Office suite (Excel, Word & Outlook).
About Meridian Trust:
Meridian Trust is a values-led organisation formed in 2011 that has risen to be one of the highest-performing academy trusts in the country. The Trust is founded on its commitment to a high-quality educational provision for all at the heart of local communities. Meridian currently operates primary, secondary and special schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.
Meridian Trust offers a wealth of fantastic benefits for teaching and support staff which are highlighted below but are not limited to:
- Apprenticeship and CPD opportunities which allow you to gain specialist knowledge in a role you are passionate about developing in.
- Opportunity to jump start your career in teaching through our dedicated Initial Teacher Training Team (ITT).
- Support for mental health and wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and other resources.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Defined benefit local government or Teacher’s pension scheme.
- Healthcare benefits including free eye test vouchers and flu vaccinations.
- Free on-site parking.
- Discounts on a wide range of benefits from everyday essentials to holidays.
For more information about the role please download the Applicant Information Pack below. Closing date for applications: 6th February 2026 at 9.00am. Interviews will be held on: 9th February 2026.
Meridian Trust reserves the right to close the applications early in the event that a suitable candidate is sourced. Applications will be reviewed as received so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
The Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches.
HR Officer employer: Woodston Primary School
Contact Detail:
Woodston Primary School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Meridian Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Meridian Trust's values and recent news. Show us that you're not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to provide high-quality education.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common HR interview questions with a mate. This will help you articulate your experience and skills clearly, especially those admin skills we’re looking for. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our awesome team.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the HR Officer role. We want to see how you can contribute to our team at Meridian Trust!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is key for this position, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. We love a well-structured application that reflects your attention to detail!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to mention any previous HR or administrative experience you have. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you’ve done that’s relevant!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Woodston Primary School
✨Know Your HR Basics
Make sure you brush up on key HR concepts and processes, especially those mentioned in the job description. Understanding payroll services, absence reporting, and safeguarding checks will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since excellent written and oral communication skills are crucial for this position, prepare to demonstrate these during the interview. Practice answering common HR questions clearly and confidently, and consider bringing examples of your written work.
✨Be Enthusiastic About Development
The ideal candidate should have a willingness to learn and grow. Be ready to discuss any training or development opportunities you've pursued in the past and express your eagerness to continue this trend at Meridian Trust.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Meridian Trust
Research Meridian Trust’s values and mission. Understanding their commitment to high-quality education and community involvement will help you align your answers with their goals, making you a more appealing candidate.