Job Title: School Business Manager HR Focus
School name: The Orchards Federation
Working Pattern: Full-time 37 hours per week (4 days will be considered)/ Term-time + 3 weeks
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Grade H scp 27 - 31 £38,220 - £41,771
Actual Salary: £34,406 - £37,603
The Orchards Federation is a vibrant, inclusive, and high-achieving group of primary schools committed to providing an excellent education for all our pupils. We are also dedicated to creating a positive, supportive working environment for our staff. As our school community grows, we are seeking a skilled and proactive School Business Manager (SBM) HR Focus to join our central team, working under the direction of the Federation Operations Manager.
The Role
The SBM HR will play a key role in supporting the effective running of the school’s HR function. You will provide high-quality advice and guidance to leaders and staff across a wide range of HR matters, ensuring compliance with employment legislation, safeguarding requirements, and school policies.
Key Responsibilities
Provide timely and accurate HR advice to senior leaders, line managers, and staff.
Support the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, induction, and exit processes.
Advise on employee relations matters such as sickness management, performance, conduct, and capability.
Maintain accurate HR records, produce reports, and ensure compliance with safeguarding and GDPR requirements, including the Single Central Record (SCR).
Coordinate safer recruitment processes, including DBS checks and pre-employment vetting.
Assist with workforce planning, policy development, and HR projects.
Support staff wellbeing, training, and development initiatives.
About You
We are looking for a confident and knowledgeable HR professional who can work independently, build strong relationships, and handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
Essential Skills and Experience
Experience working in HR, ideally in an education or public-sector setting.
Strong understanding of employment law and HR best practice.
Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage a varied workload and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail with a confidential and approachable manner.
CIPD Level 3 or above (or working towards) I or a relevant NVQ level 4 qualification is essential.
What We Offer
A supportive, friendly, and ambitious Federation community.
A genuine commitment to professional development and wellbeing
Competitive salary and local government pension scheme.
A role where you can make a meaningful difference for staff and pupils.
How to Apply
A visit to the Federation would be welcomed. These are available on the following date:
Wednesday 7th January, 2026
Please contact Kirstin Middleton, Federation Operations Manager on 01204 335883 to arrange a visit, or have a conversation about the role.
Closing date: Monday 12th January, 2026
Short Listing: Tuesday 13th January, 2026
Interview: Friday 16th January, 2026
Interview process:
School based tasks, followed by a panel interview
Completed applications should be returned to recruitment@theorchards.bolton.sch.uk
The School is committed to safer recruitment practice, and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and a barred list check.