Human Resources Assistant

HR Assistant (Freelance) – Schools/Education SectorJuniper HR is a HR consultancy company offering HR services to a range of primary and secondary schools primarily across the West Berkshire and Oxfordshire area.We are expanding and therefore we are looking for a HR Assistant to join our consultancy. We are a supportive team and we are looking for some who is able to support our business operations and who is keen to grow and develop their HR career.Summary The HR Assistant will provide flexible, on‑demand HR support to schools and other settings through Juniper HR . This role is ideal for an experienced HR professional who understands safeguarding, safer recruitment, and the operational rhythms of schools, and who prefers freelance and variable‑hours work. Hours and working days are fully flexible and can be arranged around project needs and availability.

Key Responsibilities

• Safer Recruitment Support —providing advice and guidance on completing pre‑employment checks, and ensuring compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and safer recruitment standards.
• HR Administration — preparing contracts and advising on term and conditions of employment.
• Policy and Compliance — assisting with updates to HR and safeguarding policies, HR newsletters and ensuring alignment with statutory guidance and school procedures.
• Employee Relations Support — providing first‑line guidance on absence, conduct, performance, and wellbeing matters, escalating to senior HR where needed.
• Project-Based Work — supporting audits, training preparation, recruitment campaigns.

Essential Experience and Skills

• Experience working in or with schools, MATs, early years, or other education settings.
• Strong understanding of KCSIE, DBS processes, and safer recruitment expectations.
• Ability to work independently, manage workload flexibly, and respond to changing priorities.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Confident communicator with staff at all levels, including SLT and external partners.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, and secure data handling.

Working Arrangements

• Freelance/contractor basis (self‑employed).
• Flexible hours and working days, ideally working 15 to 20 hours a week. Term time only working can be considered.
• Remote working with occasional on‑site visits if required.
• Workload may vary throughout the academic year, with peaks around recruitment cycles and compliance deadlines.

Desirable

• CIPD Level 3 or above (or equivalent experience).
• Experience supporting safeguarding audits or SCR reviews.
• Knowledge of education HR systems (e.g., SIMS, Arbor, Bromcom).
• Experience delivering or supporting HR or safeguarding training
• Experience in recruitment