HR & Cover Officer - High Achieving Secondary School in...

A high achieving and well-organised secondary school in Reading is seeking an experienced and professional HR & Cover Officer to join its administrative team as soon as possible. This is a key operational role that combines strategic HR responsibilities with the day-to-day management of staff cover, ensuring the smooth running of the school at all times.

The successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership, department heads, and teaching staff to maintain staffing efficiency, ensure compliance with safer recruitment standards, and coordinate effective cover arrangements.

The Role

• Managing daily cover arrangements for teaching and support staff absences

• Coordinating supply staff bookings and liaising with agencies where required

• Supporting recruitment processes, including advertising, shortlisting, and interview coordination

• Ensuring compliance with safeguarding and safer recruitment procedures

• Maintaining accurate HR records, contracts, and staff documentation

• Monitoring staff absence trends and producing HR-related reports

• Supporting payroll administration and contract variations

• Managing onboarding processes for new staff members

• Ensuring all statutory checks and compliance documentation are up to date

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Previous experience in school HR, cover management, or senior administration

• Strong understanding of safeguarding and safer recruitment processes

• Excellent organisational and data management skills

• Experience using school MIS systems and HR software

• The ability to prioritise workload effectively in a fast-paced environment

• Strong communication skills and a professional manner

• A proactive, detail-oriented, and highly organised approach

This Reading secondary school is recognised for its structured systems, strong academic performance, and supportive leadership team. Administrative staff are integral to the success of the school, and this role offers the opportunity to make a significant operational impact.

Salary

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)

Application

To apply for this HR & Cover Officer position in Reading, please submit your CV detailing your HR and school administration experience. For further information or to arrange a confidential discussion about the role, please contact us directly. Early applications are encouraged as the school is keen to appoint promptly.