DescriptionSupporting documentsEmployerLocation
Acorn Education Trust is a growing Multi Academy Trust established in 2014, serving 23 settings (17 primary schools, 4 secondary schools and 2 nurseries). Our vision is to transform lives through education, supported by strong, ethical leadership and high quality central services that allow schools to focus on teaching and learning.
We are seeking an experienced and forward thinking Head of Human Resources to lead and develop a high quality, trust wide HR function. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for strategy, compliance, workforce planning, employee relations, systems and operational effectiveness across all schools and central services.
Contract: Permanent, full time (37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year) - term time or flexible working may be considered. Location: Trust wide role across Acorn Education Trust schools (Wiltshire). Start date: As soon as possible.
The successful candidate will combine strategic HR leadership with a strong understanding of operational HR delivery, including systems, data, safer recruitment, and process improvement. You will work closely with the CEO, CFO and senior leaders to ensure HR systems and processes are consistent, efficient, legally compliant and scalable as the Trust continues to develop.
We are looking for someone who:
1. Has led an HR function at senior level, ideally within education or a regulated environment
2. Is confident leading complex employee relations, restructures and organisational change
3. Has demonstrable experience of improving and streamlining HR systems and processes
4. Can translate HR data into insight that supports strategic decision making
5. Brings integrity, resilience and sound professional judgement
6. Is strongly committed to safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusive practice
What we offer:
7. A key leadership role in a values driven Multi Academy Trust
8. The opportunity to shape Trust wide HR systems and ways of working
9. Strong commitment to professional development and staff wellbeing
10. Flexible working options where operationally possible
11. 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing to 30 days after five years’ service
12. Local Government Pension Scheme
13. Annual pay review
For more information, including a full job description and person specification, please read the attached Applicant Information Pack.
We strongly encourage prospective candidates to contact the Acorn HR team, to arrange an informal discussion prior to applying on: 01985-801055.
Early application is strongly encouraged. We may close the advert early if we receive a high number of strong applications.
Closing date: Sunday 12th April 2026 at midnight
Interviews: TBC
Safeguarding Statement
Acorn Education Trust, is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in obtaining this post you will be subject to a Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and health screening. We are an equal opportunities employer. As part of our safer recruitment processes, if you are shortlisted for the post, we will carry out a social media account search.