HR Manager | Join an Outstanding School Leadership Team | Waltham Forest

A highly successful secondary school in Waltham Forest is seeking an experienced HR Manager to join its senior support team on a full-time, permanent basis from September 2026.

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a forward-thinking school that is committed to investing in its staff and fostering a positive, high-performing workplace. As HR Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the employee experience, supporting strategic workforce planning, and ensuring the school continues to attract and retain exceptional talent.

Working closely with the Headteacher, School Business Manager, and Senior Leadership Team, you'll have the opportunity to influence key decisions while leading a professional and responsive HR service.

The Role

As the school's HR Manager, you'll oversee both operational and strategic HR, ensuring all people processes are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and with a strong focus on employee wellbeing.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading recruitment campaigns and overseeing all safer recruitment activities

• Providing expert advice on employee relations, absence management, disciplinary, grievance, and capability matters

• Managing HR policies and ensuring compliance with employment legislation and safeguarding requirements

• Overseeing contracts, payroll amendments, personnel records, and HR systems

• Producing workforce data and reports to support strategic planning

• Driving staff wellbeing, engagement, and retention initiatives

• Supporting organisational development and change management projects

• Building strong relationships with leaders across the school to promote best HR practice

About the School

This ambitious 11–18 secondary school has established an excellent reputation for academic achievement, staff development, and strong leadership. The school is committed to creating a collaborative working environment where innovation is encouraged, professional development is prioritised, and every employee is empowered to succeed.

The Successful Candidate

Applications are welcomed from experienced HR Managers, HR Business Partners, Senior HR Advisors, or experienced HR professionals ready to take on a strategic leadership role within education.

You'll have excellent knowledge of UK employment law, experience managing complex HR casework, and the confidence to advise senior leaders across a wide range of people matters. You'll also possess exceptional communication, organisational, and relationship-building skills.

As part of the school's safer recruitment procedures, references from your current (or most recent) employer and a previous employer will be required before an interview can be arranged.

Salary & Benefits

• £52,000–£62,000 per annum

• Full-time, permanent position

• September 2026 start

• Local Government Pension Scheme

• Extensive CPD and leadership development opportunities

• Employee wellbeing programme

• Flexible working opportunities where operationally appropriate

• Modern HR systems and excellent on-site facilities

Apply

The school is interviewing as soon as suitable applications are received, so early applications are encouraged.

If you're looking for a rewarding HR leadership role where you can influence strategy, champion staff wellbeing, and help shape the future of a high-performing school, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your CV today for immediate consideration.