Job Description

Downside is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18, and one of England's oldest and most distinguished Catholic schools. The School is situated at the foot of the Mendip Hills, twelve miles south of the city of Bath.


Working closely with line managers, the post holder manages the HR function for the School, providing operational HR advice and support across the whole employee lifecycle, and leading on projects such as change management programmes and other HR initiatives.


The HR Manager has line management responsibility for an HR Assistant, and also plays a critical role in ensuring that the school is compliant with all relevant regulations and statutory guidance.

The successful candidate will have:

Proven experience in an HR generalist role, with the ability to lead an HR function. Strong, practical and applied knowledge of up to date employment law. Ability to build strong relationships with a variety of staff and explain advice in an accessible way. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Good working knowledge of core Microsoft programmes. Ability to prioritise and work to deadlines. Experience of HR within an educational setting will be an advantage.

We can offer the successful candidate:

An experienced, supportive, skilled, and innovative staff team. The ability to have a positive impact across all areas of HR. An inspiring work environment, with listed buildings and beautiful grounds. Employee Assistance Programme and Cycle to Work Scheme.

Complimentary lunch, refreshments, and access to onsite leisure facilities including indoor swimming pool, gym, and squash courts.

Contractual Details

Pay:

40,000 - 45,000 (this may be increased for an exceptional candidate). We will consider applicants interested in a term-time position (plus some holiday working) - the salary would be pro-rated accordingly. Please indicate on your application your preferred working pattern.

Hours:

35 hours per week, Monday-Friday 9am-5pm with a 1-hour unpaid lunch break. Some flexibility will be considered. Please indicate on your application your preferred working hours.

Holiday

: Full time, full year entitlement is 25 days annual leave plus 8 days public bank holidays (other models, including term-time plus pro-rata holiday weeks will be considered).

Contract

: Permanent Contract.

Closing date for applications

: Tuesday 7th October 2025 by midnight

Interviews:

Friday 10th October 2025


If sufficient applications are received, this advert may close early. An early application is therefore recommended as an appointment may be made before the closing date.

To Apply

Please apply via CV minder where you can download the job pack.


Please complete your application through our applicant tracking system, using the apply button. CVs are not accepted. If you have any difficulties with this, please get in touch.


Applications must be completed in full and include full employment history, education history and contact details for referees to cover the last 5 years of employment.


We look forward to hearing from you.


Downside School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be DBS checked. We strive to be an equal opportunities employer. Registered Company No. 11751009 and Registered Charity No: 1184700