Full job descriptionHR Advisor - Employee RelationsLocation: Cheshire, Wirral & Liverpool (Hybrid)
Salary: £38,510-£40,444 FTE
Contract: 6-Month Fixed Term
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week (part-time considered)
We are currently recruiting for an experienced HR Advisor to join a growing education organisation on a six-month fixed-term contract.
This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional with a strong employee relations background who can confidently manage a varied caseload and provide practical advice and support to senior leaders across multiple school sites.
Please note: Previous HR experience within an education setting, such as a school, Multi-Academy Trust or council schools HR service, is essential for this role. Candidates without this experience will not be considered.
The RoleReporting to the senior leadership team, you will manage day-to-day employee relations casework, ensuring policies are applied consistently and cases are progressed efficiently and fairly.
Key responsibilities will include:
*Managing disciplinary, grievance, capability, sickness absence, probation and dignity at work cases from initial concern through to outcome and appeal.

*Providing advice and guidance to Headteachers and School Business Managers on employee relations matters and HR procedures.

*Conducting workplace investigations, interviewing witnesses and preparing detailed investigation reports.

*Drafting correspondence, including invitation letters, terms of reference, outcome letters and case notes.

*Supporting sickness absence management, occupational health referrals, return-to-work meetings and reasonable adjustments.

*Advising on safeguarding-related HR matters, including allegations against staff and liaison with relevant external agencies.

*Applying HR policies consistently and supporting the review and development of policies and procedures.

*Maintaining accurate and confidential HR records and producing regular casework and absence reports.

*Working collaboratively with trade union representatives and external legal advisers where required.

*Delivering guidance and briefings to school leaders on key HR processes.

About YouTo be considered for this opportunity, you will have:
*Essential: Previous HR casework experience within an education setting, such as a school, Multi-Academy Trust or council schools HR service.

*CIPD Level 3 qualification or above; Level 5 or higher would be advantageous.

*Experience independently managing a varied employee relations caseload from start to finish.

*Experience conducting workplace investigations and preparing evidence-based reports.

*Working knowledge of the Burgundy Book, NJC Green Book and School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD).

*A strong understanding of UK employment law and current HR best practice.

*Knowledge of safeguarding procedures relating to allegations against staff, including LADO liaison.

*Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to advise and challenge senior stakeholders when necessary.

*The ability to manage competing priorities, maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgement when handling sensitive matters.

*Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365, Teams and Excel.

*A full driving licence and access to a vehicle for regular travel across school sites.

Salary & Benefits*Salary of £38,510-£40,444 FTE, depending on experience.

*Six-month fixed-term contract, commencing November 2026.

*Full-time hours of 37 per week, Monday to Friday.

*Part-time working arrangements of three days per week or more will be considered, with salary pro rata.

*Hybrid working, including typically two days per week from home once established.

*26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, pro rata.

*Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

*Flexible working arrangements to accommodate occasional early or late meetings and hearings.

LocationThe role is hybrid, with a combination of home working, central office attendance and regular visits to schools across Cheshire, Wirral and Liverpool.
Interested?If you are an experienced HR Advisor with a background in education and are looking for your next opportunity, we would love to hear from you.
Please apply with your up-to-date CV, outlining your relevant education HR experience, qualifications and availability.
Please note: Previous experience in an education setting is essential for this position.