Strengthening Your School or MAT with our Expert HR Support

Changes to accountability frameworks, curriculum plans, Trust growth, budget pressures and employment legislation are just a few of the reasons why schools and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) choose to work with Edwin People. We help senior leaders plan for and address complex challenges that require expert education HR guidance and support. 
 

Employing our team of specialist education HR advisers on a retainer basis provides schools and MATs with a range of benefits, including school improvement, compliance assurance, increased capacity and financial savings – offering excellent value for money. 
 

5 Key Benefits of our HR Retainer Service 
 

1. Specialist Education HR Expertise 

HR in education is complex, with its own pay structures, employment laws and compliance requirements. At Edwin People, we ensure that schools and MATs have access to experienced education HR professionals who understand the sector’s unique challenges. With in-depth knowledge of education pay and conditions, employment law and key regulations like the Academy Handbook, we provide tailored advice to help schools and MATs navigate these complexities with confidence.

2. Proactive Support and Compliance 

HR issues can quickly escalate if they’re not managed proactively. Our retainer service guarantees ongoing support, helping schools and MATs address potential HR issues before they become significant problems. This proactive approach minimises the risk of time-consuming disputes and employment challenges. 

3. Cost-Effective and Flexible HR Support 

Even if you have an in-house HR team, there are times when an external sounding board, additional capacity for complex cases, or independent expertise – especially in areas like executive pay – is essential. Our retainer service provides a cost-effective solution, offering expert advice and support without the expense of a full-time salary. 

Additionally, our service builds capacity for small HR teams facing unpredictable workloads, ensuring they have the support they need, exactly when they need it – bringing peace of mind and delivering results. 

4. Strategic Planning and Trust Growth Support 

Strategic planning and Trust growth bring HR complexities, and we help schools and MATs navigate these challenges smoothly. Our team provides leadership support to ensure stability during periods of change. We work alongside your leadership team to offer advice on strategic HR planning that aligns with your long-term goals and ambitions. 

We regularly advise on workforce planning, talent management and succession strategies to future-proof your school or Trust. Our expertise in TUPE, due diligence and MAT growth ensures seamless transitions.  

5. Objective, Independent Advice 

Sometimes, a fresh and objective perspective is exactly what’s needed. When immersed in day-to-day challenges, it can be difficult to take a step back. We provide unbiased, external insights to help resolve complex HR issues, identify practical solutions, and bring clarity where it’s most needed to support decision-making. 

We understand that your staff are your biggest asset, but operational pressures can sometimes push important HR projects to the side. Our team supports school and Trust-wide improvement projects, ensuring they stay on track. By working alongside you and understanding your goals, we create space and capacity to deliver on these clear priorities 

With an independent HR expert working alongside you, you can make confident, well-informed decisions that support your school or Trust’s success. 

Find Out More 

Whether you’re looking for immediate support or planning ahead for the start of the new academic year in September, we’re here to help. Call us on  0191 6076 300  or email  [email protected]  to discuss how we can support your school or Trust.