School HR Administrator

Job Description
Job Title - HR Administrator
Location -Ilford, Essex
Reports To - HR Manager / School Business Manager
Hours of Work
Monday to Friday
Alternating weekly shift pattern:
Week 1: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Week 2: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm£16-19 per hour 

Job Purpose
To provide a professional, confidential and efficient HR administration service, supporting the effective management of the school's workforce. The HR Administrator will ensure all employee records are maintained accurately, support recruitment and onboarding processes, assist with compliance requirements, and contribute to delivering an outstanding HR service to staff across the school.
Key ResponsibilitiesRecruitment and Selection
Administer the end-to-end recruitment process.
Prepare and advertise vacancies.
Arrange interviews and communicate with candidates.
Produce offer letters and employment contracts.
Coordinate pre-employment checks including references, identity verification, right to work, qualification checks and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) applications.
Ensure all safer recruitment procedures are followed in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).Employee Administration
Maintain accurate electronic and paper personnel records.
Process new starters, contract changes and leavers.
Prepare employment-related documentation including confirmation letters, contract amendments and probation correspondence.
Update HR databases ensuring information is accurate and compliant with UK GDPR requirements.
Monitor probation periods and notify managers of review dates.
Attendance and Absence
Record staff absence accurately.
Monitor sickness absence and maintain attendance records.
Produce absence reports for senior leaders.
Support managers with return-to-work documentation.Compliance
Maintain the Single Central Record (SCR) in line with statutory requirements.
Ensure all safeguarding, employment and compliance records remain current.
Monitor expiry dates for visas, DBS checks, qualifications and mandatory training.HR Support
Respond to routine HR enquiries from employees and managers.
Assist with disciplinary, grievance, capability and absence management administration.
Take notes during HR meetings where required.
Arrange meetings and prepare documentation.Training and Development
Maintain training records.
Coordinate staff induction programmes.
Support the administration of mandatory safeguarding and compliance training.General Administration
Maintain confidential personnel files.
Produce HR reports and statistics.
Assist with policy reviews and document updates.
Manage HR correspondence and filing.
Support wider school administration when required.Person SpecificationEssential Qualification

Essential Knowledge and Experience
Previous experience in an HR or administrative role.
Experience maintaining confidential records.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and Outlook.
Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Understanding of confidentiality and UK GDPR requirements.Desirable Experience
Experience working within a school or educational environment.
Knowledge of safer recruitment practices.
Familiarity with school HR systems such as SIMS, Arbor or Every HR.
Understanding of employment legislation and safeguarding requirements.Personal Qualities
Professional and approachable.
Trustworthy and discreet when handling confidential information.
Highly organised with excellent time management skills.
Calm under pressure.
Flexible and adaptable.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Positive and proactive attitude.
Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.SafeguardingThe school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant must hold a valid Enhanced DBS Certificate registered with the DBS Update Service or be willing to obtain one before commencing employment. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including references, right to work verification and compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance