Job Description
Head of People
The Vale Federation of Schools
Salary: Range 8
Contract: 42 weeks per year, 37 hours per week
Location: Multi site (Aylesbury area)
Start Date: As soon as possible
Shape the culture. Empower our people. Drive our future.
The Vale Federation of Schools is seeking an exceptional and forward‑thinking Head of People to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the strategic development of our most important asset — our staff.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced HR leader to influence organisational culture, strengthen workforce development, and ensure our Federation remains a place where colleagues feel valued, supported, and inspired to deliver the very best for our pupils.
If you are passionate about people, thrive in a dynamic environment, and want to make a meaningful difference in education, we would be delighted to hear from you
About the Role
As our Head of People, you will:
Provide strategic leadership across all HR functions, ensuring best practice and legal compliance
Advise senior leaders on employment law, HR policy, organisational change, and workforce planning
Lead on recruitment, safer recruitment, induction, and talent development
Oversee HR systems, data accuracy, reporting, and continuous improvement
Manage and develop the HR and Payroll teams
Lead on staff wellbeing, engagement, and absence management strategies
Support performance management, CPD planning, and staff development pathways
Work closely with unions and professional associations to maintain positive relationships
Lead on organisational change processes including restructuring, redundancy, and TUPE
Report to and advise the Governing Board on all HR and employment matters
Ensure HR policies, procedures, and documentation remain current, compliant, and effective
This is a strategic role with significant influence across the Federation, requiring a leader who can combine professional expertise with emotional intelligence, clarity, and a people centred approach.
About You
We are looking for a confident, knowledgeable, and values‑driven HR professional who brings:
Essential Experience & Skills
• Senior‑level experience within HR
• Strong understanding of employment law, safer recruitment, and HR best practice
• Experience working in the education sector
• Line management experience
• Experience developing and operating HR systems
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship‑building skills
• High levels of accuracy, attention to detail, and professional integrity
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365
Qualifications
• CIPD Level 5 in Human Resources
• GCSEs in English and Maths
• Full UK Driving Licence
Desirable
• Knowledge of Access Education People
• Knowledge of Arbor MIS
• Mental Health First Aider training
• Business acumen
Personal Qualities
• A commitment to the Federation’s ethos and values
• Integrity, honesty, loyalty, and fairness
• Emotional intelligence and empathy
• Resilience, adaptability, and a positive approach to change
• A collaborative mindset and a passion for supporting others to thrive
Why Join The Vale Federation?
• A supportive, ambitious, and values driven leadership culture
• The opportunity to shape the Federation’s people strategy and staff experience
• A varied and rewarding role with real strategic impact
• Strong commitment to professional development and CPD
• A chance to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people