HR & Cover Manager

Summary:

HR & Cover Manager needed at a school in Lewisham. Lead HR and cover coordination with a focus on compliance and pupil safety.

About the School:

The school is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young people with autism, offering a supportive, inclusive environment that fosters independence, confidence, and personal growth.

The Opportunity:

As the HR & Cover Manager, you will play a vital role in managing the school’s HR function and ensuring smooth daily operations through effective staff cover arrangements. This is a key leadership position that impacts the school’s ability to deliver high-quality education and support to students.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all core HR activity, including employee relations, absence management, and performance processes.
• Provide professional HR advice to senior leaders and governors, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and safeguarding policies.
• Coordinate Occupational Health referrals and maintain accurate staffing records and compliance documentation.
• Manage end-to-end recruitment processes in line with DfE Safer Recruitment requirements and complete pre-employment checks for all staff and volunteers.
• Organise and coordinate daily teaching assistant cover arrangements, prioritising pupil safety and operational continuity.
• Maintain the Single Central Record and ensure it is audit-ready at all times.
• Act as the school’s operational lead for GDPR compliance and manage staff data on Arbor.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Proven experience in HR management, with a strong understanding of employment legislation and safeguarding.
• Experience in managing recruitment processes and completing pre-employment checks.
• Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Familiarity with HR software and systems, including Arbor.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Preferred

• Experience in a school or educational setting, particularly with students with autism.
• Experience in managing cover coordination and working with supply agencies.
• Knowledge of GDPR and data protection requirements.
• Experience in managing performance processes and employee relations.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Annual allowance for glasses, dental treatment, and complementary therapies.
• Access to counselling, Employee Support Service, and virtual GP.