HR Business Partner - Schools

My client, a London based Local Authority, is seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to join their established Schools team. This role involves providing a modern and innovative HR and ER advisory service to the borough's schools. You will manage your own portfolio of schools and provide support and guidance to stakeholders as needed. An onsite presence is essential when required. Reporting to the Head of HR Business Partnering, you will play a vital role in delivering and enhancing the HR service to schools in the Borough. This role also involves managing high volume ER case work and coaching and supporting managers in having difficult conversations. As part of the People Business Partnering team, you will collaborate with the wider organization to deliver strategic and operational projects for the benefit of the Borough's residents. This role can be considered on an interim basis, secondment, fixed term contract, or subject to discussion. The successful candidate will have experience in a similar role within a Local Authority or in a School or Academy. Key requirements include extensive knowledge and experience in the Local Government or education sector, providing consultancy HR services, a deep understanding of HR best practice and employment law, the ability to coach and support managers, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. CIPD qualification or equivalent work experience is preferred.

• Can you tell us about your experience working in HR within the Local Government or education sector?
• How have you provided consultancy-style HR services to schools in the past?
• What is your knowledge of HR best practices, employment law, and organizational change?
• Can you give an example of a difficult conversation you've had to coach and support a manager through?
• How do you tailor your communication to provide appropriate advice to different organizations within your portfolio?
• How do you develop and maintain relationships with Headteachers, Schools Leaders, Managers, and stakeholders?
• Can you provide an example of a project you've worked on that benefited the residents of the borough?
• How do you work independently with minimal supervision while still knowing when to consult with colleagues?
• Are you CIPD qualified or can you provide evidence of equivalent experience and competence?
• How do you stay up to date with changes in HR and employment law?

• What is the current state of HR and ER services within the borough's schools?
• Can you provide examples of strategic and operational projects that have benefited the borough's residents?
• What is the expected level of involvement and support from the Head of HR Business Partnering?
• What are the key challenges and opportunities in managing high volume ER case work in schools?
• Can you provide more information about the hybrid working arrangement and how often on-site presence is required?