HR Manager | Join an Exceptional Secondary School Leadership Team

A successful secondary school in Richmond upon Thames 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 join a school that genuinely values its staff and recognises the vital role Human Resources plays in driving educational success. Working closely with the Headteacher School Business Manager and Senior Leadership Team youll lead a modern HR function helping to shape workforce strategy strengthen employee engagement and ensure the school remains an employer of choice.

If youre looking for a role where youll have strategic influence while remaining involved in operational HR this position offers the perfect balance.

Youll lead all aspects of Human Resources ensuring the school delivers a professional proactive and people-focused HR service that supports both staff and organisational objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading recruitment onboarding and safer recruitment processes

• Advising senior leaders on employee relations absence management disciplinary grievance and capability matters

• Developing and reviewing HR policies in line with current employment legislation

• Managing contracts payroll amendments HR systems and personnel records

• Producing workforce reports to support strategic planning and budgeting

• Leading staff wellbeing engagement and retention initiatives

• Supporting organisational change succession planning and workforce development

• Identifying opportunities to improve HR processes and enhance the overall employee experience

This high-performing 1118 secondary school has earned an excellent reputation for academic achievement strong leadership and exceptional staff development. The school has a collaborative and inclusive culture where innovation is encouraged professional growth is supported and every member of staff is recognised for the contribution they make to the wider school community.

Applications are welcomed from experienced HR Managers HR Business Partners Senior HR Advisors or experienced HR professionals looking to lead HR within an ambitious educational setting.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of UK employment law experience managing complex HR casework and the ability to build trusted relationships with leaders across the organisation. Youll be an excellent communicator with a proactive approach and a genuine passion for developing people and creating positive workplace cultures.

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

• per annum

• Full-time permanent position

• September 2026 start

• Local Government Pension Scheme

• Extensive CPD and leadership development opportunities

• Employee wellbeing and mental health support

• Flexible working opportunities where operationally appropriate

• Modern HR systems and excellent on-site facilities

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

If youre ready to lead HR within a thriving secondary school where youll influence strategy support outstanding staff and play a key role in the schools continued success wed love to hear from you. Submit your CV today for immediate consideration.