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