School HR Officer - Wandsworth

School HR Officer – Secondary School, Wandsworth

We are seeking an experienced, organised, and professional School HR Officer to join a busy and supportive secondary school in Wandsworth. This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional who is passionate about education and enjoys working in a fast-paced environment where they can make a real contribution to the smooth running of the school.

The school is committed to providing an outstanding learning environment for its students while fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture for staff. With a strong emphasis on professional development, collaboration, and high standards, the school values the important role its support staff play in ensuring pupils receive the very best educational experience.

As the School HR Officer, you will report directly to the Principal and take responsibility for the day-to-day HR function, supporting recruitment, employee relations, payroll, compliance, and staffing processes while ensuring all HR practices meet current employment legislation and safeguarding requirements.

This is a full-time, temp-to-perm opportunity, offering an excellent pathway to a permanent position for the successful candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full recruitment process in line with safer recruitment guidance.
• Complete all pre-employment checks, including references, Enhanced DBS checks, Right to Work documentation, and qualification verification.
• Prepare offer letters, contracts, and employment documentation.
• Maintain accurate personnel records and HR data using Arbor.
• Ensure the Single Central Record (SCR) remains fully compliant and inspection ready.
• Administer monthly payroll, contractual changes, and additional-hours claims.
• Coordinate staff inductions and probationary review processes.
• Monitor staff absence and support managers with absence management procedures.
• Provide HR guidance on disciplinary, grievance, capability, redundancy, TUPE, and family leave matters.
• Support senior leaders with HR policies, procedures, and employee relations cases.
• Assist with the completion of the School Workforce Census.
• Produce HR reports for senior leaders and governors.
• Take confidential minutes during formal HR meetings and hearings.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures and school policies are followed at all times.

Essential Criteria

• Minimum CIPD Level 3 qualification – essential.
• Significant HR administration experience.
• Previous experience managing recruitment and selection within an education setting.
• Strong knowledge of HR policies, employment procedures, and safer recruitment.
• Experience administering payroll processes.
• Experience maintaining a compliant Single Central Record (SCR).
• Excellent organisational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively to deadlines.
• Strong Microsoft Office and HR database skills.
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Preferred Criteria

• A degree or Level 3 administrative qualification.
• Experience using Arbor, SIMS, or another school management information system.
• Experience supporting employee relations cases.
• Knowledge of school workforce census requirements.
• Experience working within a secondary school or academy environment.
• A proactive and solution-focused approach to HR management.

This role would suit an experienced School HR Officer who enjoys working in a varied and rewarding education environment. The successful candidate will become an integral member of the school's leadership support team, helping to deliver an efficient, compliant, and people-focused HR service while benefiting from the opportunity to secure a permanent position following an initial temporary period.

Why Work with Education World?

• REC Audited Education Status – Recognised for the highest recruitment standards
• Weekly Pay – Paid every Friday, always on time
• PAYE Only – No umbrella companies or hidden fees
• Free CPD Opportunities – Access to professional development
• Rated 4.9 on Trustpilot – Trusted by hundreds of education professionals
• Dedicated Consultants – Local knowledge and ongoing support
• Candidate-First Approach – Your availability, preferences, and wellbeing always come first
• Referral Bonus – Recommend a friend and earn uncapped rewards (T&Cs apply)

Safeguarding & Equal Opportunities

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and candidates to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks in line with regulatory requirements and the REC Code of Professional Practice.

Education World is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.